The progress I made; what was achieved and done

With several partners confirmed, I shifted my efforts this week towards strategy. I started developing funding materials, outlining potential donor packages for bins and mail-back envelopes. I started researching grants and started building a spreadsheet of prospective funders. I re-engaged MPD and other previously contacted organizations including public libraries and youth-focused nonprofits to check in and maintain momentum.

What could have been done differently?

I still hadn’t heard back from many of the youth programs I reached out to early on. I underestimated how quiet summer months can be for these orgs. While I continued to follow up, I could have focused more energy on identifying harm reduction nonprofits or university-based public health programs. I also realized I didn’t yet have a standardized method for responding to potential funders.

What did I learn about myself when working with others?

This week I leaned into persistence. Even without rapid replies, I kept refining my materials and process so that when the right opportunity came along, I would be ready. I also realized that I am able to balance initiative and patience, I didn’t let quiet weeks discourage me.

What did I learn about leadership

I learned that leaders must not only launch ideas but also sustain them with structure. It also showed me that quiet moments are necessary in any cycle of work.

What do I want to develop or focus on next?

I want to finalize my donor and grant outreach plan, polish the sponsorship materials, and begin having actual conversations with potential funders. I also want to revisit youth programming as the school year approaches.