We recently started work with a non-profit on strategic planning with a hyper focus on ensuring that we were co-designing an equitable plan that authentically engaged stakeholders and lifted up community voice in developing organization goals. Through our work across non-profits, we have learned that engaging stakeholders in planning on the front-end is crucial to growing an organization that is accessible and responsive to the needs of all members of the community while also promoting positive, wider-reaching change.
Key strategies to effectively engage this valuable resource group when designing equity initiatives include:
① COLLABORATION
Involve stakeholders in the decision-making process to make them feel valued and included. Engagement through surveys, focus groups, and/or feedback sessions allows users to share their perspectives, experiences, and suggestions. This collaborative approach provides valuable insights, but also fosters a sense of ownership, letting stakeholders feel heard and valued.
② OPPORTUNITIES TO ACT
Provide stakeholders with opportunities to co-design shifts or changes in programming that more responsively serve end users. This may include creating an organizational goal or workstream that specifically focuses on a stakeholder-focused concern or initiative aligned with an organization’s interest.
③ PARTNERSHIPS IN ADVOCACY
Work with other advocacy groups, organizations can leverage the expertise and networks of these groups to engage a wider range of stakeholders
④ EDUCATION
Share informative content through various channels, such as social media campaigns, blogs, or workshops, organizations to help stakeholders understand the reason for the change in a particular program direction, funding or desired audience.
⑤ TRANSPARENCY
Share progress, goals, and challenges openly with stakeholders, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and building trust. Regular updates about equity initiatives and inviting feedback ensure users feel like active participants in the journey towards equity and inclusion.
Putting ideas into practice. From reflection to implementation.
Strong ideas are only the beginning. Achieving the Promise works with organizations to design systems, align leadership, and support the sustained work of improvement.
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