Weaving Alliances: Implementation of the “Transforming Lives” Play Center in Istmina, Chocó-Colombia

Abstract

This research was developed between 2021-2023 in the municipality of Istmina, located in the department of Chocó, where the Transforming Lives Play Center of the Corporación Organización El Minuto de Dios was established. The central purpose of the research was to implement a strategy for strengthening and expanding collaborative networks and alliances to put the Play Center into operation. The European Commission has launched a call for proposals to improve the quality of the services offered, providing an optimal space for beneficiaries, and ensuring long-term sustainability.

The methodology used in the research has a qualitative approach, the method is inductive, and the design is based on action research. Field work was carried out with home visits in the territory, to interview different actors, and thus identify the context and needs of the population and establish networks, and alliances adapted to those needs. In addition, the “partnership semaphore tool” used to identify and subsequently establish networks and alliances with other organizations interested in contributing to the social project. Among the results of the research, it was possible to establish a strategy that includes twelve partners, which made it possible to significantly strengthen the capabilities and resources available to the Play Center. The success achieved during the Transforming Lives project is largely attributed to the participatory and collaborative process with the community since the formulation and implementation of the project.