Let’s challenge our potential to do good.

 

My practice focuses on what I refer to as the ecosystem.  Local governments, community-based organizations, think tanks and academic institutions, and philanthropies comprise an ecosystem that has the potential to positively impact people’s lives. Additional capabilities include strategic partnering, legislative drafting training, and opinion writing.

 


The Ecosystem

Local Government Agencies

ThinkForward Strategies works with cities, counties, school districts, and other public agencies interested in dismantling the barriers that impede good governance and equitable policymaking.

Interested in being more responsive to community needs? We can do that. Want a comprehensive analysis of which policies you have on your books and which ones you’re missing to accomplish your goals? We can do that too. Have some outdated, old fashioned, contradictory, and maybe even illegal (ssshhhh) laws still hanging around? We can identify those and figure out what to do with them.

Let’s talk about how to move forward

Nonprofit Leaders and Community-Based Organizations

ThinkForward Strategies excels at supporting organizations with diverse strategies and funding streams to coalesce around common goals.

If you’re looking to embark on a lengthy strategic planning process that results in a plan that sits on a shelf, we respectfully suggest that you close this tab immediately. But if you’re interested in developing and implementing a plan with specific, practical steps, let’s connect. If you want to engage in scenario planning – that is, assessing how your organization’s mission and current assets align with changing conditions – definitely get in touch. If you’re looking for someone to facilitate your next retreat or series of convenings, give us a call. And if you’re looking for someone to support hard conversations and build consensus within your organization or with external partners, we should talk … right away.

Let’s talk about how to move forward

Think Tanks and Academic Institutions

ThinkForward Strategies partners with think tanks and academic institutions to diagnose current challenges and push research in new, bold directions.

Are you asking the right questions? Have you connected with folks on the ground who will be impacted by your work? We thrive at having structured conversations to generate fresh thinking for new and persistent problems.

Let’s talk about how to move forward

Philanthropies

ThinkForward Strategies helps philanthropies understand and utilize all of the potential arrows in their quiver to complement a more traditional grantmaking approach.

Are you looking to expand your impact? What strategies have you employed? Which new ones are you willing to try? Have you considered litigation? We’ve worked with foundations large and small to increase their impact to ensure lasting change.

Let’s talk about how to move forward

 

 Additional Capabilities


Strategic Partnering

Want to connect with someone who’s “been there, done that”? Or maybe someone who can offer a different perspective or subject matter expertise? Or maybe just someone who’s sharp and insightful to help you think through an innovative idea or particularly tricky challenge. Having worked with all sorts of lawyers, policy experts, scholars, nonprofit leaders, community advocates, and state and local government officials, ThinkForward Strategies can expand your network and connect you with someone who knows how to overcome whatever challenge you’re facing.

Legislative Drafting Training

ThinkForward Strategies offers a three-part training series that elevates legislative drafting as a tool to promote social change. The series is geared towards policy advocates and lawyers who are new to legislative drafting. At the end of it, participants will be able to turn vague policy ideas into concrete legislation, craft specific provisions aimed at achieving sustained, equitable outcomes, and avoid common drafting pitfalls that can lead to unintended negative consequences.

Opinion Writing

We’ve all been there. New research emerges and you have something to say. A news article is making the rounds, but a critical viewpoint - your viewpoint - is missing. But who has the time to respond? ThinkForward Strategies can help you craft op-eds and letters to the editor quickly, efficiently, and right on point.

All Testimonials

“I've worked with many consultants over the years, and Ben stands out as one of the best. He adapts quickly when priorities shift or circumstances change. Plus, his strong network allows him to swiftly bring in trusted advisors whenever additional expertise is needed."

Linsey Morrison, Founder of Sunny Springs Advisory Group; Former VP of Impact, Eventbrite

“I’ve worked with Ben on a variety of projects over the past several years. In addition to being an incredibly talented planner, problem-solver, and organizer who is deeply knowledgeable in matters of policy, law, and advocacy, he is skilled at leading, lifting, and guiding people and projects. I can't recommend him highly enough.”

Dr. Lori Riverstone, Associate Professor, Politics and Government, Illinois State University

“Ben is an exceptional lawyer who has an amazing ability to respond to difficult client issues with both strategic thinking and creative solutions.  He is a pleasure to work with and always brings a smile to everyone he encounters.”

Michelle Marchetta Kenyon, City Attorney; Partner at Burke, Williams & Sorensen

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Ben on a variety of projects over many years. He is a valued thought partner who brings deep legal and policy experience, an ability to keep work moving forward, and high standards to all that he does.”

Jim Krieger, MD, MPH, Executive Director, Healthy Food America

“In a very short time, Ben proved himself to be indispensable to us. We have benefited from the fact that he works at a high level and with a wide network across many areas: public health, the law, and academic research. He has great ideas and he gets things done.”

Kim Haddow, Director, Local Solutions Support Center

“Ben’s strengths span a variety of organizational needs, from strategy and policy development to fundraising and media. He's also a thoughtful collaborator - he listens carefully, skillfully builds consensus, and finds common goals.”

Sarah de Guia, CEO, ChangeLab Solutions

Let’s start thinking together so we
can move forward.