At InCommons, we continue to discover great examples of courageous leadership and positive differences being made by local leaders and organizations. Even on the most divisive issues, successful problem solving derives from the contending parties' ability to view an issue from divergent perspectives. When leaders each seek a different outcome, it's finding common ground that provides an opening to inspired collaboration. Only then can communities take the necessary steps to move from debate towards a common solution.

Our friends at The Minnesota Idea Open (MIO) are currently hosting a competition for collaboration. As contradictory as that may initially sound, the Challenge focuses on building bridges between different faiths and cultures and centers around our common goals and values. By understanding and communicating openly about our differences, we can chart a positive course toward a stronger, more united community. Applicants are encouraged to apply with an idea now through March 23, and the winner will receive $15,000 to help that idea become reality.

To see how others are creating change in their communities, visit the MIO website to view recent entries or submit your own ideas.

Many organizations around the state are already engaging in collaborative problem-solving. For example, The Minnesota Council of Churches (MCC) has made great strides in opening faith-based dialogues around contentious issues. Last year, MCC collaborated to gather leaders of different faiths to talk about the 9/11 10th anniversary, and this year the organization is launching a project to convene conversations about the state's proposed Constitutional amendment on marriage equality. Called the Respectful Conversations Project, it seeks to reduce or diminish combative attitudes or feelings of animosity toward participants whose views on the issue differ from their own. The Council will convene at least 50 conversations around the state, reaching more than 2000 people. The dialogues will primarily be hosted in church congregations and will be open to the public. The goal of the conversations is to give people a safe place to express their own views and to hear and better understand the views of others. Visit the Minnesota Council of Churches' website for more information about these upcoming discussions.

How are you working with others to find common ground on contentious community problems? What other local issues might benefit from collaborative problem solving and dialogue? We want to hear from you. Start a discussion at InCommons.org, send your story to blog@incommons.org  or enter the Minnesota Open Idea Challenge today.