The Solution

Roots & Legacies led a comprehensive facilitation process, working with both associations and the National Pork Board to develop a strategic plan that balanced collaboration with organizational independence. We facilitated stakeholder outreach and in-person planning sessions with a combined task force, focusing on key operational areas such as budgeting, governance, and reporting. Recognizing the potential for skepticism, we also developed clear messaging and talking points to help leaders communicate the benefits of the new strategy while reassuring stakeholders that their voices would remain central to decision-making. Additionally, we helped the associations articulate how strategic alignment could enhance resource utilization and advocacy efforts, ensuring buy-in across both states.

To support implementation, Roots & Legacies co-created systems for accountability, measurement, and progress tracking. These systems provided a structured framework for reporting out on joint initiatives while ensuring each association retained control over its own operations. By guiding the associations through this complex collaboration in a way that made sense both regionally and nationally, we helped establish a model for effective multi-state partnerships.

Services

Communicating with Purpose

Guiding Organizations to Excellence

Pursuing Business Excellence

The Result

The joint strategic plan provided a clear and practical framework for Kentucky and Tennessee pork leaders to enhance collaboration while preserving their independence. With the support of the National Pork Board, both organizations now have a systematic approach to shared resource utilization and operational efficiencies. The transparent and well-structured communication strategy developed by Roots & Legacies was instrumental in securing producer buy-in, alleviating concerns about autonomy, and positioning the initiative as a win-win for all involved.

Since the plan’s adoption by both state boards, other pork associations across the U.S. have expressed interest in pursuing similar strategic alignment. This shift has the potential to reshape how state pork associations collaborate, creating new opportunities for efficiency, advocacy, and shared industry growth. The accountability and reporting systems we implemented ensure that the plan remains actionable, measurable, and sustainable over time. Through this partnership, Roots & Legacies enabled Kentucky and Tennessee’s pork leaders to pioneer a new model of cooperation that strengthens the industry while maintaining the integrity of each association.