Health inequities by their very nature are large, complex, and messy. We often approach them as singular and isolated issues, as opposed to interconnected and interdependent challenges. Those working to improve these conditions need to continuously build our capacity to look at and tackle complex challenges in a more holistic way, to recognize that these challenges do not have simple solutions, to be prepared to work with messiness & uncertainty, and to transform systems to build a more equitable future.

About the content

The half-day session will introduce a few frameworks, tools, and concepts to help you understand what “systems change” is all about, when and why it’s valuable, and what this all might mean for how you approach your work. With input from peers working on health challenges in Missouri, you’ll have a chance to apply your learning and take an initial step in systems change work by ‘defining’ your systemic challenge - reflecting on and interrogating the boundaries and core purpose of your work.

The session will also feature a case study from a real-world systems change practitioner, providing the opportunity to learn and ask questions about what systems change work looks like on the ground.

This session is intended to help nonprofit organizations in the Missouri Foundation for Health (MFH) service region improve their capacity to engage in systems thinking and change. Participation in this session is not a prerequisite for eligibility to MFH funding, does not guarantee future MFH funding, or put any organization in a position where they are more likely to receive funding. This event is not an informational session on how to apply for MFH funding.

About the virtual session

The half-day session will begin at 9 a.m. CT and end at noon CT with breaks.

MFH is happy to offer these workshops free of charge.

Engaging in Systems Change Workshop