Nonprofits Rolling Together Conference August 23rd, 2018 Harnessing your Social Capital

Who am I? Activist College Graduate Spouse CEO/President

What is the Green Chamber? Began in 2010 Formed by Local Business Owners Based on the Triple Bottom Line Our Goals

What is Social Capital? Social Networks have value. Social capital refers to the collective value of all "social networks" [who people know] and the inclinations that arise from these networks to do things for each other ["norms of reciprocity"]. -- Saquero Seminar “Social Capital" refers to features of social organization, such as networks, norms, and trust, that facilitate coordination and cooperation for mutual benefit. Social capital enhances the benefits of investment in physical and human capital.—Robert Putnam "It's not what you know, it's who you know." This common saying describes some of what is known about social capital. The saying implies what we commonly observe – that getting membership to exclusive clubs requires inside contacts; that close competitions for jobs and contracts are often won by those with friends in high places.—University of Minnesota

Social Capital Networks Bonding Networks Bridging Networks Linking Networks

Bonding Networks Usually with Family, friends, and neighbors Give you a sense that you belong, help you get by. Also known as strong ties Some can be bad: cults, gangs, elitist clubs

Bridging Networks Weak ties but give more opportunities Benefits: People with broad connections expand their opportunities Weak ties are most helpful during a job search because they gather a breadth of information and opportunities

Linking Networks Create access to organizations and systems that help people get resources and create change Are strong when residents trust leaders and private institutions Are strong when residents are engaged with leaders of public and private institutions

Developing Social Capital Take Stock of your Social Capital Develop areas where you are lacking Nurture ALL of your relationships

Summary Stronger Communities Better Education Individual Well Being and Public Health Economic Prosperity