At its core, this guide is about relationships. These are not relationships that may exist in the jargon of the non-profit or philanthropy worlds, usually termed "grants" and framed by "project periods." These are relationships dependent on time, listening, understanding someone else's perspective and desires, and letting go of power and control to work together respectfully and reciprocally.

It is about world views and how people with differing views and experiences can come together to first know each other. If the getting to know you part goes well, folks might identify common goals, then work together to advance some or all of them. As we look around the world, we see this is not easy work; struggles are ongoing for money, land, water, and what the land provides. Climate change is heightening and contributing to these struggles.