When ACT sought to strengthen the impact of Self-Advocates Minnesota (SAM), Willow Consulting partnered with them to take a closer look at what was working—and what could be even stronger. SAM is a statewide network led by people with disabilities, and the approach centered on listening first.

Through interviews with participants, staff, and partners across Minnesota, Willow Consulting gathered insights into how the network operates and where opportunities for growth exist. That learning came together in a two-day retreat with 28 leaders from across the state, along with staff and allies, creating space for honest reflection, shared priorities, and future visioning.

The result was more than a report—it was a roadmap. The findings and recommendations not only clarified SAM’s path forward, but also helped secure future funding through a grant proposal grounded in the work.