Think of the last time a project or plan came off as you’d hoped. It can be a “small” thing. What a feeling - that sense that you played your part well, that your team did too, and the stars aligned. The outcome is deeply satisfying at the moment, and the memory provides hope for the future.
We want to repeat this kind of success as often as possible. The Rotary Foundation can help. When it comes to global granting, our Foundation asks us to conduct a community assessment. We know that this important first step makes satisfying success more likely.
Once we imagine a project, it is tempting to imagine that our point of view on the problem and solution is correct and complete. That’s a temptation that is important to avoid. Measuring twice to cut once takes real energy, curiosity, and a healthy level of self-doubt. We are often motivated to get on to the business of cutting.
An assessment’s purpose is to better understand those you’re planning to serve, to be well-informed for wise allocation of resources, and to grow trust among all involved. It is a time for questions and listening, a time to purposefully set aside knowing and talking. The Foundation suggests seven types of assessments, some that involve people directly, others that involve research and observation about people. You can adapt any of them to your everyday circumstances, making each more interesting and bright with new possibilities.
- Asset inventory
- Community mapping
- Community meeting
- Document and policy review
- Focus group
- Interview, and
- Survey
To learn more, check out the Foundation’s resource: Conducting Community Assessments.
One Thousand Words
A while ago I encountered the graphic (shown in the header above.) It stuck with me as a good pattern for aware and engaging storytelling (looking back) and planning (looking ahead).
Good assessment changes the expectations for execution and success. Get the picture?
Our Favorite Assessment Tool
Finally, as Rotarians, we are encouraged to live ethically; regularly assessing what we think, say, and do. The assessment tool we’re given is our Four-Way Test. Someday soon, get curious and open your mind to a different point of view. Anticipating a new project or way of doing things? Ask someone other than yourself our four valuable questions, give them space to think, and then listen carefully:
- Does this seem true to you?
- Does this seem fair to you?
- Do you think this will build goodwill and better understanding?
- Do you think it will be beneficial to all concerned?
Whatever Your Next Step, It Will Be Stronger
Global Grants are interesting and rewarding. You should do one. Your district leaders are here to help - and at the moment, your funding is multiplied with extra district and Rotary Foundation funding. Please don’t hesitate to contact me. Let’s explore possibilities!
Karen Hebert, Global Grant Committee Chair
715 456-2900