The key roles of a backbone organization are outlined in detail below. Before going into the roles, it is important to note that while the backbone often is perceived as a position with the most power in a collective impact effort, it is most effectively played by an entity that embraces the principles of servant leadership. In essence, the backbone needs to play a very quiet and behind-the-scenes role, lifting up others who are doing the work so they get the well-deserved credit for the data-driven work they are doing on the ground to support children. In the end, an entity willing to take this servant-oriented stance, instead of being more visible, will be able to play the following roles much more effectively as partners across all sectors and at all levels will feel respected for the contributions to the partnership vision:<\/p>\n