Community-Centered Collaboration via
Integrated Service Delivery Networks
At Sankofa Leadership, we understand that traditional service delivery models often constrain upward economic mobility by fitting individuals into rigid programs rather than offering tailored support. To address these systemic issues, we have partnered with MDC and Infinite Workflow to drive the Build Up Initiative, which fosters community capacity for Integrated Service Delivery (ISD) Networks.
ISD Networks reimagine how services are delivered, focusing on bundling essential supports—work, health, income, education, and financial coaching—around the unique needs of individuals and families. This approach directly tackles the systemic barriers that, instead of helping, often keep people trapped in cycles of poverty and economic insecurity. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the vulnerabilities in our current system, where over half the population lives paycheck to paycheck, burdened by debt, and misses out on billions of dollars in unclaimed public benefits each year.
Sankofa Leadership has supported the successful launch of three ISD Networks: in Guilford County, North Carolina; Durham County, North Carolina; and St. Paul, Minnesota. These initiatives are part of our broader effort to embed person-centered approaches within local ISD Networks, starting with streamlining resource distribution across human, health, and workforce services.
Research shows that having a person-focused navigator significantly increases individuals' likelihood of success, even if they do not utilize all available services. This highlights the importance of personalized, coordinated support that ISD Networks provide. Moreover, by fostering collaboration among local stakeholders, service providers, and community members through a participatory design process, ISD Networks amplifies the impact of each organization’s efforts.
The ISD approach triples the odds of achieving significant economic outcomes, such as reduced poverty, increased education and employment levels, and greater financial stability—outcomes that are critical social determinants of health and key to upward mobility. As these Networks grow, their demonstrated success will encourage broader adoption, ensuring that more communities can benefit from an integrated, equitable approach to service delivery. By working together, local networks decrease the likelihood of community members falling through the cracks and empower them to achieve sustainable social, economic, and health outcomes.
Community-Centered Collaboration through ISD Networks exemplifies our commitment at Sankofa Leadership to supporting local efforts in building a stronger, more resilient social fabric—one that empowers all individuals to thrive.
Learn more about the Build Up Initiative here.
