The reach of a nonprofit can span from the local and state level to even encompass international regions and populations depending on the mission of the organization. While there is a tendency to place greater value in the work being done on a bigger scale, it’s important to remember that every goal being accomplished does not happen in a vacuum; instead, it is the cumulative efforts of both nonprofit professionals and community members that drives true change.
Unfortunately, getting local community members involved in nonprofit work is not as easy as it sounds, even if it will benefit the community in the long term. To help, 15 Forbes Nonprofit Council members share specific steps a nonprofit organization can take to persuade the local community to become more engaged and involved in its mission and work.
Host a ‘listening tour’ where the nonprofit intentionally reaches out to community leaders, influencers and constituents it serves or hopes to serve. Share the mission and work but primarily seek input and insight about what you might be missing and voices you may not have heard. Follow up on what you learn by creating opportunities for locals to participate, lead and help create a shared vision.
Tina Admans, President, Minds Matter Southern California