Uniting diverse organizations under a single global initiative is no small feat, especially when faced with cultural differences and longstanding frustrations. Missions of Hope International (MOHI) sought to achieve just that, bringing together three distinct entities, including vendors and volunteers, to work towards a unified goal of expansion. The challenge was further compounded by the primary organization's base in Africa, adding layers of cultural complexity. Here's how Tandem Collaborative helped turn their vision into reality.
Challenge: Bridging Cultural and Organizational Gaps
Larrie Fraley from Missions XP, Christ's Church of the Valley, poignantly expressed their gratitude: "Thank you for all you do for the kingdom. I am sure someday you will meet a 20-year-old in heaven who says to you, 'you don’t know me, but when I was eight you helped Mary and Wallace on a project that allowed me to…'"
MOHI faced significant challenges in aligning all parties involved, overcoming cultural barriers, and addressing over a decade of deteriorating partnerships. Their vision was ambitious: to reconcile years of frustration and unify everyone towards a common expansion goal.
Solution: A Deep Dive into Unity and Strategy
We began with deep-dive sessions to uncover MOHI's core visions and unspoken, ambitious goals. Moving beyond typical surface-level discourse, we fostered authentic and vulnerable communication to address underlying frustrations. Over five days, we facilitated healing and unity, setting the stage for a strategic evaluation that redefined the initiative's foundations for a robust and expansive future impact.
Our comprehensive approach included:
1. Team Re-Alignment and Coaching: A five-day intensive team re-alignment program focused on building trust and cohesion among diverse parties. This was supplemented by ongoing coaching and consulting to ensure sustained progress.
2. Brand Strategy Refresh: Revamping their brand strategy to better align with their unified vision and resonate across cultural divides.
3. Innovation and Marketing Strategy: A three-day innovation workshop and a go-to-market (GTM) strategy session helped refine their approach to expansion. This included a 2-year milestone roadmap to keep everyone on track.
4. Cross-Department Training and Tactical Support: Training across departments ensured everyone was equipped with the skills and knowledge needed for the expansion. We also provided delegated tactical support, from event planning to developing GTM campaign concepts.
5. Digital and Communication Tools: Developing mobile app wireframes, email marketing templates, and social media templates to enhance their digital presence and engagement.
Results: A Unified Path Forward
Through our integrated approach, Missions of Hope International experienced a significant transformation. The teams became more aligned, communication improved, and the strategic foundation was set for a successful expansion. By addressing both the emotional and strategic aspects of their challenge, we helped MOHI build a cohesive and motivated team ready to achieve their ambitious goals.
Core Focuses Achieved:
Team Alignment Scorecard: Ensuring everyone was on the same page.
Brand Strategy Assessment: A refreshed and resonant brand identity.
Digital Scorecard: Enhanced digital presence and engagement.
Competitive Analysis: Staying ahead of industry trends.
Foundational Scorecard: Strengthened foundational processes.
Culture Health Analysis: A motivated and cohesive team.
Transforming a fragmented organization into a unified and strategically aligned entity is no small task. The journey of Missions of Hope International with Tandem Collaborative showcases the power of deep communication, strategic planning, and comprehensive support in achieving long-term success. This case study highlights the importance of addressing both cultural and operational challenges to drive impactful change and expansion.3
