Go Far, Go Together for Meaningful Impact

By: Chet Hewitt In: Diversity and Inclusion| Leadership

30 Jun 2010

I recently attended the Council on Foundations CEO Summer Retreat in Los Angeles. Like most of you, I often question the value of yet another CEO get-together. I find myself weighing the value of what I “might” get out of participating in these types of events against the work I “would” accomplish if I stay focused on the numerous issues that require attention at my office. This analysis is even more important for me than in years past, particularly as I consider the economic and social circumstances facing our communities of interest, as well as the financial challenges confronting philanthropy.

The retreat was well worth the time. It reminded me of the importance of reflective practice and the power of a frank, substantive, and creative exchange with knowledgeable colleagues on issues that are front and center for our organizations.Dean Ellen Schall of the Wagner School of Public Service at New York University introduced me to both concepts many years ago.

The call of work and the commitment to generating impact too often challenge our ability to create the right balance between action and deliberative planning and reflection. In work and life, like in sports, the best move for gaining an advantage can result from strategically calling a timeout to assess the situation and plan next steps.

For me, the opportunity to get together with a group of philanthropic leaders – whose experience and expertise stretch across numerous disciplines and whose thoughtfulness and creativity know few boundaries – was invaluable.

As the saying goes, “If you want to go quickly go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” This retreat was a definitely a go-far experience.

Chet Hewitt is president and CEO of Sierra Health Foundation

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