Bluegrass Community Connector is an effort to identify and convene the Connectors in our communities. Identifying Connectors and bringing them together is a powerful way to encourage different and dynamic voices to be part of community conversations about issues that affect us all. It’s also a great way to link people and resources with community needs.
Who is a Connector?
In his book The Tipping Point, author Malcolm Gladwell calls people who make it possible to bring great ideas to fruition “Connectors.” Connectors are those trusted individuals who create positive change. Connectors often operate “under the radar” — they are not always in positions of authority but have a great ability to influence others through their informal networks. They may connect people, ideas, knowledge, support or resources.
How does it work?
Bluegrass Community Connector begins with a community-wide identification process: We’re asking you to complete an online survey to identify those you know personally who serve as Connectors in our community.
Results will be analyzed by NetForm to develop a list of those people who frequently touch lives in Central Kentucky. NetForm is an organization’s collective knowledge and experience, embodied in informal networks, is its most valuable asset during times of change. NetForm International, founded in 1997, is an award-winning, innovative enterprise software company that licenses its capabilities in B2B and B2C environments. The company is a leader in this area, building on over twenty-five years of research and consulting experience.
The project will also include research on the characteristics of Connectors, as part of a national effort to better understand leadership. The study is under the direction of Dr. Karen Stephenson, who consults internationally on leadership and social networks.
Bluegrass Community Connector isn’t about any particular issue or point of view. While we see the potential for many positive outcomes, we’re not prescribing any – these will be driven by input from the Connectors themselves.
Can I identify myself as a Connector?
No, please do not identify yourself or members of your family.
Can I identify more than one Connector?
Yes, please identify many, as long as you know them personally.
Where will this project take place?
This community connector project will focus throughout Central Kentucky.