How can community members be empowered to make meaningful decisions?

1 Define the purpose and scope

The first step to empower community members is to define the purpose and scope of their involvement. What are the goals and objectives of the decision-making process? What are the roles and responsibilities of the community members and the nonprofit staff? What are the boundaries and limitations of the community input? By clarifying these questions, you can set clear expectations, avoid confusion, and create a shared vision.

3 Provide feedback and follow-up

The third step is to provide feedback and follow-up to the community members who participated in the decision-making process. Feedback can include acknowledging their contributions, sharing the results, explaining the rationale, and addressing any concerns or questions. Follow-up can include inviting them to further discussions, providing them with updates, or involving them in the implementation or evaluation of the decision. By providing feedback and follow-up, you can show appreciation, accountability, and transparency.

4 Build trust and relationships

The fourth step is to build trust and relationships with the community members. Trust and relationships are essential for empowering community members, as they can foster mutual respect, understanding, and collaboration. You can build trust and relationships by being honest, consistent, and responsive; by listening actively and empathetically; by recognizing and valuing the community's strengths and assets; and by creating opportunities for social interaction and networking.

5 Support capacity building and learning

The fifth step is to support capacity building and learning for the community members. Capacity building and learning can help community members develop their skills, knowledge, and confidence to make meaningful decisions. You can support capacity building and learning by providing training, coaching, mentoring, or peer support; by facilitating access to information, resources, or opportunities; by encouraging feedback and reflection; and by celebrating achievements and successes.

6 Share power and ownership

The sixth and final step is to share power and ownership with the community members. Sharing power and ownership means giving community members a genuine voice and influence in the decision-making process, as well as a sense of responsibility and accountability for the outcomes. You can share power and ownership by involving community members in all stages of the decision-making process; by delegating authority and autonomy; by creating collaborative and democratic structures; and by acknowledging and rewarding the community's contributions.

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?