Strategic Partnerships
Strategic Partnerships with CCL
At Center for Changing Lives (CCL), we believe that collective impact is only possible through deep, intentional partnerships. Whether you are an employer, nonprofit, small business, or community stakeholder, we invite you to join us in building pathways to economic opportunity.
We’ve developed a tiered partnership model that recognizes the many ways organizations engage with our work—whether it’s through information-sharing, direct collaboration, strategic hiring, or financial support. Each partnership is unique, and we are proud to celebrate that diversity through four core levels of engagement: Engager, Investor, Adopter, and Ambassador.
Our Partnership Tiers
ENGAGER – Exchange of Information
This is the beginning stage of partnership. Organizations at this level are engaged in an initial exchange of information and resources, such as sharing program materials, being added to each other’s newsletters, providing feedback, or distributing job opportunities. Engagers are included in CCL’s resource lists and communications and may participate in light-touch collaborations. This tier applies to both our Financial Opportunity Center (FOC) and Business Development & Ownership (BDO) initiatives.
INVESTOR – Referrals & Collaborations
Investors represent active referral partners. At this level, organizations have established a referral pipeline and maintain consistent communication with our team. These partnerships often lead to creative collaborations such as joint workshops, community events, and volunteer opportunities. Examples include business owners who serve as guest speakers or partners who participate in our Train-the-Trainer initiatives.
ADOPTER – Strategic Collaboration (MOU)
Adopters are organizations with a deeper, strategic relationship with CCL. These partners have demonstrated consistency in referrals, engagement in programming, and alignment with CCL’s mission. Adopters formalize the relationship through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and often hire multiple CCL clients or host interns. They also provide retention feedback to help support client success. All Adopters receive a feature in our Partner Spotlight, gaining visibility and recognition for their contributions.
AMBASSADOR – Program & Financial Support
Ambassadors are champions of our work. These partners actively support and sustain CCL programming by sponsoring initiatives, hosting fundraising or employment-related events, or offering in-kind resources such as venue space, meals for workshops, or job training supports. Ambassadors model community investment and help advance systemic change through financial and programmatic alignment.
Partnership Tracking & Recognition
Each partner is tracked in our Partnership Engagement Tracker, which captures contact information, collaboration history, and impact metrics. This tool helps ensure we remain connected and accountable to the organizations that help power our mission.
🌟 Partner Spotlight
To celebrate and recognize our strongest partners, each issue of the CCL Newsletter features a Partner Spotlight highlighting an Adopter or Ambassador. These spotlights include a short write-up about the partner’s mission, our collaboration, and how others can get involved—with photos and direct contact information to deepen connections.
Let’s Build Together
Whether you’re just getting to know CCL or are ready to deepen your involvement, we’d love to learn more about your organization. Let’s explore how we can collaborate to empower Chicago communities and create equitable opportunities together.
📧 Reach out to us at frontdesk@cclconnect.org or 773-342-6210 to learn more.