The Becoming Butterfly framework was inspired by the Community Involvement to Renew Commitment, Leadership, and Effectiveness (CIRCLE) process for capacity development. CIRCLE honors the concepts found in the Gathering of Native Americans curriculum, a culture-based planning process built upon an Indigenous theoretical framework to address community-identified issues.  

We apply the Becoming Butterfly framework in all of our work. It reflects the cyclical, non-linear, iterative process to break down silos by building relationships and skills across sectors; work together to address shared goals; and build commitment to the effort. We consider this a promising practice for sustainable transformation and stronger health governance.

The resource was made possible by the Cherokee Nation Public Health through funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.