Many organizations have need of skillful strategic planning and community needs assessments (CNAs) to optimize their work. Such community-level research with thoughtful public engagement can yield an accurate understanding of strengths and needs, and appropriate strategic actions.
In 2024, our team demonstrated how the sometimes-mandated, hard work of strategic planning and community needs assessments can be transformed into high-value, high-utility learning events. Director of Healthy Communities, Dr. Nancy McCrohan and Affiliated Consultant, Gary Heidel gave a presentation to Community Action Agencies, showcasing our team’s expertise with conducting CNAs.
The presentation, shared below, breaks down what is needed to create a successful CNA. For example:
- The stages around need assessments
- Different resources available for CNAs
- Common frameworks used for CNAs
- The importance of a work plan
- Using data (and the different collection modes)
To discuss how the hard work of CNAs can become smarter, faster, and easier please connect with Dr. McCrohan at NMcCrohan@publicpolicy.com
