2.5: Starting the Conversation

Once you’ve identified your priority partners, the next step is reaching out and beginning the conversation. The goal isn’t to have everything decided in the first meeting, but it is to build understanding, find the connection to young caregivers, and identify a next step together.

Guiding these conversations effectively relies on a four-step engagement approach: Relationship → Recognition → Relevance →Next Step.

THE FOUR-STEP PARTNERSHIP CONVERSATION FRAMEWORK

Relationship: Start with the relationship
Approach outreach as a collaboration, not a sales pitch. Learn about their work, the families they serve, and their core priorities to connect Powerhouse® naturally to their existing mission.

Recognition: Help Them See Young Caregivers
Don’t be surprised if you hear, “We do not have young caregivers here.” Encourage partners to look beyond the person receiving services and consider the whole family: “Are there children or youth in the home?” and “Do they help support a family member?”. These questions can help partners recognize young caregivers who may already be connected to their organization.

Relevance: Make the Connection to Their Work
Help partners understand both why supporting young caregivers matters and why it matters to their organization. Early recognition and support can reduce the impact of caregiving on a young person and strengthen the whole family. Frame the key message: “Young caregivers may already be part of the families you support; they just have not been identified yet.” Explore whether they fit best as a Referral Partner or Program Delivery Partner.

  • Referral Partner: The organization helps recognize young caregivers and connect them to available Powerhouse® programming.
  • Program Delivery Partner: The organization has the interest, capacity, and connection to families needed to deliver Powerhouse® programming in partnership with YCA.

Some organizations may be able to do both.

Next Step: Keep the Relationship Moving
The first conversation doesn’t need to end with a commitment. Agree on one practical next step that keeps the relationship moving forward. This might include:

  • Sharing young caregiver information or resources with staff.
  • Connecting with other relevant staff or departments.
  • Hosting a Young Caregiver Training Session with YCA for staff.
  • Exploring a young caregiver referral pathway.
  • Continuing discussions about becoming a Powerhouse® program delivery partner.

★ Powerhouse® Tip: Keep the first conversation simple. Help partners see how young caregivers connect to the families they already support, then agree on one clear next step.

✅ Key Takeaway: Initial skepticism usually reflects a lack of awareness rather than a lack of interest. Reframe conversations around whole-family impact to help prospective partners recognize the hidden caregivers in their existing programs.