You're leading a community outreach program. Which key leadership skills are essential for success?

The essential skills needed for leadership success in community outreach include tenacity, patience and the ability to empower and uplift others. The leader that has an ability to do these things will be able to establish trust and garner confidence from their team and the community. The tenacity and patience will provide the focus required to work through challenges and the courage needed to build others up in ways that keep the outreach efforts moving forward effectively.

When you embark on community engagement, it's important to recognize that the process can move swiftly, especially depending on your field. Therefore, having a clear understanding of your mission becomes even more essential. It acts as your guiding light, ensuring that every interaction aligns with your organization's goals. Remember, as you engage with the community, you are representing your organization. Every conversation, every action should reflect your mission. This consistency helps build trust and credibility among your audience. By consistently speaking to your mission, you establish a strong connection with your stakeholders, making them more likely to support your cause.

Según mi experiencia poder contar con un fuente de recursos externos es fundamental. Me refiero a organizaciones que esten trabajando en la misma causa y que colaboren con recursos externos, ya sean económicos o recursos humanos. Conocer con que se cuenta y tiene disponible es una manera de organizar la tarea. Aumentar el presupuesto y los contactos ayudará en este punto también.

Leading a community outreach program requires fierce curiosity and openness to new ideas. Decentralize power and bridge the gap between your organization and the community. Good ideas can come from anywhere, especially from those you serve. Move beyond the savior mentality and uplift the agency and independence of the people you're helping. Motivation and well-being are key. Regularly check in on your team's spirits and be ready to offer support. The work is demanding, and burnout is a real threat, so develop compassion and grace. Balancing good intentions with sustainable practices is essential for long-term success. As a leader, inspire, support, and empower both your team and the community.

In my opinion, there is a distinct difference between simply being out in the community and being actively involved. While being present at events and visible is important, true engagement goes beyond that. It involves understanding the issues faced by your community and actively working towards finding solutions. Engagement requires a commitment to working alongside community members, organizations, and stakeholders. It means actively participating in initiatives, volunteering your time and skills, and contributing to the collective effort of making your community better. Remember, community engagement is a two-way street.