May 2024 FSP Cohort Retreat at Cedar Creek
Set against the serene backdrop of Missouri wine country, the Missouri Firearm Suicide Prevention Learning Cohort gathered for a two-and-a-half-day retreat filled with intensive learning, collaboration, and rejuvenation. The retreat not only provided an opportunity for cross-cohort learning; it also reinforced the importance of rest and self-care for those leading the complex, emotionally demanding work of firearm suicide prevention. The Cohort left the retreat with a renewed sense of purpose, stronger connections, and practical strategies to strengthen their FSP efforts.
Highlights from the Cohort Retreat
Ripple Effect Mapping (REM): The Cohort introduced REM, a participatory evaluation approach, to brainstorm the broad impacts of their FSP initiatives. Starting with success stories, grantees engaged in discussions about how the various aspects of their FSP efforts “ripple” through their communities, resulting in impacts that may not be captured through more traditional evaluation approaches.
Systems Learning: Using the Six Conditions of Systems Change Framework, the Cohort mapped the systems conditions that influence how their various target populations relate to firearm suicide. This exercise uncovered new potential entry points and strategic levers for members to explore through their individual initiatives and as a Cohort.
Stories on FSP: Recognizing the power of stories to enhance strategic communication and advocacy, the Cohort developed a story map to capture impactful personal accounts that have emerged from their work. This exercise provided insights into the types of stories being shared, their purposes, and how teams are engaging with and capturing these narratives.
