Strengthening Organizational Capacity
Strengthening Organizational Capacity (SOC) is a course-based program that threads theory and practice together to support organizations in aligning to the Community Food Centre (CFC) model.
This program is for Good Food Organization (GFO) leaders interested in learning about and utilizing the CFC model as an example of a way to inform change management. This could be at the organizational operations or program level looking at policies, practices and procedures.
This program will utilize frameworks that are based on equity, strengths, and community assets and work towards embedding anti-racist, reconciliatory, inclusive, and community-informed ways of practicing. Participating leaders will also gain access to new knowledge, resources, and tools to help them implement their change management process.
Through monthly live sessions, online engagements through the Howspace platform, and building a Community of Practice (CoP), this interactive program will aim to bring change to organization leaders across the country from coast to coast to coast.
It will also thread other themes throughout the sessions including:
- Working through resistance to change
- Fostering an organizational culture based on values, inclusivity and collective care
- Program development and evaluation that engages and is informed by community members
The SOC program is designed for leaders of Good Food Organizations (GFO) affiliated with Right To Food. This includes:
- Decision-makers and influencers: Leaders with direct access to the board who collaborate closely with staff to develop programs and are responsible for shaping the organizational culture, policies, procedures and practices.
- Leaders seeking connection and support: Those who feel isolated in their role and are looking to strengthen connections with sector peers, stay current with innovative trends, and receive support from Right To Food throughout the program. The goal is to enhance motivation and reduce burnout by providing new clarity and purpose.
- Becoming part of a movement: Aligning with the CFC model will not only strengthen and support the creation of dignified food programs but will also galvanize us together to become a collective force for critical policy change.
Check out our two streams in our program overview document (PDF).
- Cost-free professional development.
- Selected Community of Practice (CoP) participants will have an opportunity to get a $3,000 grant for their participation.
- Layered learning over time: The program is designed with three integrated activities that thread key concepts through continuous learning opportunities and engagement over a period of 10 months.
- Different levels of access and engagement: There will be a drop-in course session format while also providing the opportunity to attend the course and engage in a structured peer-to-peer CoP with additional 1:1 coaching.
- Intentionally designed for community food organizations.
- Dedicate time to work on organizational change.
- Access Right To Food resources and curated sector expertise.
- Build community with like-minded GFO leaders across the country.
The SOC program consist of 3 layered activities to engage leaders:
Course: This 10-month course will be facilitated by content experts taking a theory to practice approach. The program is highly interactive and engaging by using inquiry-based methods, allowing leaders to share their personal experiences and insights about their work.
Community of Practice: The CoP engages selected leaders through a monthly virtual meeting throughout the duration of the program. The facilitated sessions follow the topic of the preceding course allowing for deeper discussion of the materials.
Coaching Consultant: Each participant in the CoP has access to a 1:1 coaching throughout the program by a Right To Food staff. The coach provides support in setting and prioritizing organizational goals that align with the CFC model.
Check out more information in our program overview document (PDF).
If you are interested in learning more about this course and you are a Good Food Organization, please email [email protected].






