The Heinz Endowments recognized the need to reassess and refine the strategic direction of its African American Men & Boys Task Force (AAMBTF). The challenge was to develop a strategic roadmap that would effectively address the growing and interconnected needs of African American men and boys in the Pittsburgh metropolitan region, ensuring the task force's efforts were aligned with the evolving socio-economic landscape.

The African American Men & Boys Task Force (AAMBTF) was an initiative by the Heinz Endowments aimed at improving the life outcomes of African American males in Pittsburgh. Over the years, the task force expanded its scope, addressing a wide array of issues, including education, economic opportunities, and leadership development. However, as the community's needs evolved, the task force needed to reassess its strategic focus to continue delivering high-impact programs and initiatives.

Symphonic Strategies was engaged to lead a strategic road mapping process for the AAMBTF. Our approach was designed to provide clarity, focus, and actionable steps that would guide the task force's work over a five-year period. The process involved a series of strategic sessions, stakeholder interviews, and the development of a comprehensive strategic roadmap that outlined the task force's priorities, objectives, and implementation strategies.

The strategic road mapping process unfolded in several key phases:

1. Strategic Sessions: We facilitated a 3-hour in-person strategy session with the Heinz Endowments' staff and administration. During this session, we consolidated and prioritized a list of strategic destinations that would guide the task force's direction for the next three years.

2. Stakeholder Interviews: Following the strategy session, we conducted individual interviews with Heinz staff members to gather their input and identify areas of convergence. These conversations were critical in refining the strategic priorities and ensuring that the roadmap reflected the collective vision of the task force.

3. Visual Roadmap Development: We produced a visual sketch of the strategic destinations, which was then developed into a polished infographic. This visual roadmap served as a key tool for communicating the task force's strategic plan to stakeholders and guiding its implementation efforts.

4. Strategic Plan Documentation: The visual roadmap was accompanied by a detailed written strategic plan, which elaborated on each strategic pathway and identified key indicators and metrics for success. This document provided a clear and actionable guide for the task force's activities.

5. Final Presentation and Adjustments: The final strategic roadmap and plan were presented to the AAMBTF Advisory Board during a 2-hour facilitated conversation. Based on the feedback received, we made final adjustments to the plan before delivering the completed documents to the Heinz Endowments.

The strategic road mapping process resulted in a well-defined roadmap that has guided the AAMBTF’s efforts over the past five years. Key outcomes include:

- Focused Strategic Direction: The roadmap provided a clear focus for the task force, allowing it to prioritize its efforts on the most critical areas, such as building resilient scholars, cultivating purposeful athletics, and addressing systemic barriers.

- Enhanced Collaboration and Accountability: The road mapping process fostered greater collaboration among stakeholders and established clear accountability measures, ensuring that all involved parties were aligned and committed to the task force's goals.

- Increased Impact: With a refined focus and strategic direction, the AAMBTF was able to launch and support programs that effectively addressed the needs of African American men and boys in Pittsburgh. The roadmap’s emphasis on measurable outcomes helped the task force track its progress and adjust its strategies as needed.

The success of the strategic road mapping process was driven by a comprehensive and inclusive approach that engaged all key stakeholders. By providing a clear and actionable roadmap, Symphonic Strategies helped the AAMBTF focus its efforts on the most critical areas, resulting in greater impact and more efficient use of resources.

Are you ready to develop a strategic roadmap for your organization? Contact Symphonic Strategies today to learn how our tailored consulting services can help you achieve your long-term goals.