Collaboration has always been a cornerstone of Penny Lane Centers’ work, allowing us to meet the complex and evolving needs of the children, youth, and families we serve. By working across programs, disciplines, and teams, we are able to provide care that is coordinated, thoughtful, and grounded in shared purpose. As systems shift and new expectations emerge, collaboration continues to be one of our greatest strengths.
In this month’s Collaboration Corner, Charito sits down with Naomi to explore why collaboration matters now more than ever—especially as Penny Lane Centers navigates changes under BHSA (Behavioral Health Services Administration). Through this conversation, Naomi reflects on how collaboration shows up in day-to-day work, the role it plays in supporting families during times of change, and how every staff member contributes to strengthening our collective impact.
Charito: Naomi, thank you for taking the time to talk with me today. Can you share why collaboration is so important at Penny Lane Centers?
Naomi: Thank you, Charito—I’m glad to be part of this conversation. Collaboration is truly at the heart of the work we do at Penny Lane Centers. We serve children, youth, and families with complex needs, and no single program or individual can meet those needs alone. When teams collaborate across departments and disciplines, we’re able to provide more comprehensive, consistent, and effective support. It helps ensure that families don’t experience services in silos, but instead feel supported by a unified organization.
Charito: How does collaboration show up in your day-to-day work?
Naomi: It shows up in many ways—through case consultations, multidisciplinary team meetings, shared problem-solving, and ongoing communication between programs. Collaboration allows us to learn from one another’s perspectives and areas of expertise. It also helps us respond more quickly and thoughtfully when challenges arise, because we’re working together rather than independently.
Charito: As we face changes with BHSA, how do you see the importance of collaboration evolving?
Naomi: With the changes happening under BHSA (Behavioral Health Services Administration), collaboration becomes even more critical. The system is shifting, expectations are evolving, and there is an increased emphasis on coordination, accountability, and outcomes. To navigate these changes successfully, we need strong partnerships—not only internally, but also with county departments, community providers, and other stakeholders. Collaboration helps us stay aligned, adapt more smoothly, and continue delivering high-quality services despite uncertainty.
Charito: What do you think could happen if collaboration isn’t prioritized during this transition?
Naomi: Without collaboration, there’s a real risk of miscommunication, duplicated efforts, or gaps in services. During times of change, those gaps can directly impact the families we serve. Prioritizing collaboration helps us stay grounded in our mission, maintain consistency, and ensure that changes are implemented thoughtfully and equitably.
Charito: What would you say to staff about their role in strengthening collaboration moving forward?
Naomi: I’d say that collaboration isn’t just a leadership responsibility—it belongs to all of us. Every conversation, every check-in, and every effort to understand another program’s perspective matters. As BHSA changes continue, staying curious, open, and connected will be essential. When we collaborate intentionally, we’re better equipped to support one another and, most importantly, the people we serve.
Charito: Thank you, Naomi. Any final thoughts you’d like to share?
Naomi: Collaboration has always been a strength of Penny Lane Centers, and it will continue to be one of our greatest assets as we move forward. By working together, we can navigate change with purpose and continue making a meaningful impact.
If you are interested in sharing your own stories of collaboration, please email Charito Guerrero at cguerrero@pennylane.org. We are always looking for opportunities to highlight the great work happening across our many programs.
-Charito Guerrero & Naomi Novak, Penny Lane Centers
