I‘d always advise to follow this: „If it’s about them, don’t do it without them.“ If you want to put your community at center of your strategy, ask them themselves regularly and integrate participation in your organization routine. Your community members are the experts of their living reality, so ask them for their perspective and expertise!

You can also create advisory boards to gain immediate, firsthand insights into shifting priorities. In my experience, one-on-one personal connections often reveal more than simple surveys. People may struggle to articulate their concerns directly, but their stories, behaviors, and interactions can offer valuable insights, which are easier to observe through direct engagement.

To stay aligned with evolving community priorities, consistent engagement is crucial. I’d prioritize ongoing dialogue through regular surveys and feedback sessions, making it a core part of our strategy. Collaborating with local partners and hosting open forums ensures we stay aware of emerging trends and issues. Engaging directly allows us to co-create solutions, empowering community members as active contributors to the process. By treating them as experts of their own experience, we can adapt responsively, ensuring our work remains relevant and impactful.