How do you partner with local organizations for outreach?

1 Identify potential partners

Before you reach out to any local organization, you need to do some research and identify the ones that share your mission, vision, and values. You also need to consider their capacity, reputation, and network. You can use online directories, social media, referrals, or events to find potential partners. Make a list of the organizations that match your criteria and prioritize them based on your goals and resources.

2 Approach them with a clear proposal

Once you have a list of potential partners, you need to approach them with a clear and compelling proposal. You need to show them how partnering with you will benefit them and their community. You also need to be respectful, professional, and transparent. You can use email, phone, or in-person meetings to contact them. Make sure you follow up and keep the communication open until you get a response.

3 Collaborate on outreach activities

After you secure a partnership, you need to collaborate on outreach activities that align with your mutual objectives and expectations. You need to communicate regularly, share feedback, and celebrate successes. You also need to respect each other's roles, responsibilities, and boundaries. You can use online tools, meetings, or events to coordinate and execute your outreach activities. Make sure you evaluate and document the outcomes and impact of your partnership.

4 Maintain and nurture the relationship

Partnering with local organizations is not a one-time deal. You need to maintain and nurture the relationship over time. You need to show appreciation, recognition, and support. You also need to look for opportunities to grow and improve your partnership. You can use newsletters, social media, or cards to stay in touch and acknowledge their contributions. You can also use surveys, interviews, or reports to assess and enhance your partnership.

5 Learn from best practices and challenges

Partnering with local organizations can be rewarding, but also challenging. You need to learn from the best practices and challenges of other organizations that have done it before. You need to be flexible, adaptable, and creative. You also need to be aware of the potential risks, conflicts, and ethical issues that may arise. You can use online resources, webinars, or mentors to learn from the experiences and insights of other outreach professionals.

6 Share your stories and results

Partnering with local organizations can have a positive impact on your community and your organization. You need to share your stories and results with your stakeholders, donors, and supporters. You need to showcase your achievements, challenges, and learnings. You also need to highlight your partner's role, value, and impact. You can use blogs, podcasts, or videos to share your stories and results. You can also use data, testimonials, or awards to demonstrate your impact.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?