Author(s): Susan M. Wolfe, Ann Webb Price, Sandy Perkins, & Karen L. Probert

Abstract:

Partnerships provide a variety of expertise, perspectives, and resources to tackle complex public health problems. This article shares evaluation results from a program to build capacity among three participating states to achieve their Maternal and Child Health goals through partnership development with other state agencies and external organizations. Data were collected quarterly from each participating state agency using a standardized form. The study used a mixed-methods design. This article covers the project period September 1, 2020, through May 31, 2025. Himmelman’s levels of collaboration (networking, coordination, cooperation, collaboration) were used as the analytic framework. Initially state teams reported they had existing relationships with 23 non-state and 12 state organizations and new relationships with 51 non-state and 14 state organizations, or a total of 65 new relationships. By the end of Year 5, the three state teams reported engaging with 74 non-state and 26 state organizations, for a total of 100. Of the 100 organizations, by Year 5, 32 never went beyond networking; 15 reached the coordination level; 24 were engaged in cooperative engagements and 29 were engaged in full collaboration where there were shared resources and ongoing projects and work. The partnerships demonstrated advantages and led to collaborative projects and product development. They increased collaboration among state agencies and led to two-way partnerships with community-based and other organizations. Partnership development required dedicated staff who could allocate the time and effort needed for successful and productive engagement.

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Article:

To access the complete article, click Wolfe et al. (2026)

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Author(s)

Susan M. Wolfe, Ann Webb Price, Sandy Perkins, & Karen L. Probert