One of the things I enjoy most about consulting is that first conversation with a potential new client. It is not unlike a first date, when we hope to present our best self, share values and maybe dreams, understand worldviews and connect with another person. It can be the beginning of a shared journey or an amicable parting of ways.

We think entering into a consulting relationship is not that different. Research and our experience tell us that effective consulting is about alignment of values and purpose, complimentary styles and approaches. It, works best when each party “gets” the other, when working together makes each stronger. The ideal result is a positive transformation through the relationship.

Our new website, which we refer to internally as jdcP 3.0, is our first date with you. We hope that, as you move through the pages, read the words, click on links, and take in the images and metaphors, you get a sense of us. But just in case you prefer bullets, here are five things for you to know:

1. We embrace the complexity of the work you do. It does not scare us. In fact, we like it.
2. We look for clients who know themselves and are willing to push the boundaries of what they can be.
3. We will bring as much to the table as you do. By leveraging our collective strengths and expertise, so much more is possible.
4. We learn something new from each client engagement and in return we leave you stronger than before we came.
5. We want to partner with you in this work. We will be there in the early stages, when things look grey and out of focus and will be with you to help make things clearer.

I must go to Nature disarmed of perspective and stretch myself like a large transparent canvas upon her in the hope that, my submission being perfect, the imprint of a beautiful and useful truth would be taken.
~ John Updike, The Centaur

December 21, 2012 marked the completion of the Great Mayan Cycle. A central focus of the 2012 prophecy is that humanity must confront our disconnection from Nature and re-establish our harmonious interconnection with all of life, awakening our human potential and aligning with Earth’s next evolutionary phase.

In 2013, as you reflect on your life, work and community, we offer a few questions for your consideration:

1. What re-alignments and connections with nature must you seek to fully embrace what the world has to offer?
2. What are the ways in which you will nurture yourself and your relationships so that your life has joy and purpose?
3. What are the ways in which you will strengthen and leverage your work (or service) in service of a more just and equitable society?
4. With whom else with what other organizations would

Here at jdcPartnerships, we continue our journey in search of balance. This is not  a new idea to us but rather a re-affirmation of our commitment to be more disciplined and thoughtful about the ways in which we as individuals, women and  consultants interact with each other, our client partners and the larger fields in which we work while still tending to our lives, loves, self and the natural world that we are blessed to be surrounded by in the Bay Area.

Wishing you all a new year filled with whatever you need to be your most complete, balanced and productive self.

• jdcPartnerships is entering into a year 2 contract with APPEALS to continue our evaluation capacity building re: their Empowering Communities for Health Opportunity, Equity and Sustainability grant from the CDC.
• We are expanding our work with MOCHA to include a culture assessment as part of the strategy formation and planning process.
• The jdcP team is working with the Center for Volunteerism and Nonprofit Leadership to explore ways to better express the impact and value of volunteerism.
• Jill Casey continues her support of a national study exploring the development director role in nonprofit organizations led by CompassPoint and the Evelyn and Walter Haas Jr Fund.
• We are beginning a project with the Annie E. Casey Foundation to research current practices that integrate an intentional race equity/structural change lens to evaluation design and implementation.