The Power of Connection

“Alone, we can do so little. Together, we can do so much.” — Helen Keller

Connection is the key for progress. In the nonprofit world, it’s easy for organizations to remain siloed, focused on the day-to-day responsibilities that keep programs, services, and activities running. But when we pause, come together, and share ideas, we unlock new opportunities to innovate, advocate, and serve our community in more meaningful ways.

This is why AABDC emphasizes the power of coming together. We believe that when organizations connect — drawing from each others’ strengths, ideas, and passions — their impact is far greater than what any single organization could accomplish alone.

Each fall, AABDC hosts an annual luncheon for our grantees. This gathering is not simply a meeting; it’s a space to connect leaders across disciplines and approaches. Around the table, you’ll find medical professionals, legal advocates, teachers, rehabilitation specialists, and leaders from many other fields—all united by a common purpose.

These gatherings give leaders the rare opportunity to step outside of their silos and engage with peers who share their values. Over the decades, we’ve seen how these conversations spark collaboration, foster fresh ideas, and create lasting partnerships. They also provide a moment to celebrate achievements—both big and small—that together form a powerful story of community progress.

When you add up each organization’s milestones, you don’t just see individual victories. You see a mountain built from the collective rocks of shared success. That’s why we strongly encourage our grantees—and the broader nonprofit community—to seek out connection. Take the time to meet with other leaders and practitioners, exchange insights, and explore new partnerships. Each connection can help open doors of opportunity and can create relationships that can last for decades and elevate those who will help lead the way for our next century of success.

At AABDC, we remain committed to being a convener, connector, and collaborator. Because together, we can achieve far more than any of us could accomplish on our own.