Strategy 1: Build community engagement into every step of the grant-making process
Engaging communities and CBOs early in the programs and grant development process can help bolster trust and ensure the funding opportunities are aligned with the needs of the communities and the CBOs that serve them. Maintaining open channels for bi-directional communication throughout the application and administration process can help CBOs navigate challenges and provide feedback to administrators on how processes can be improved.
Additional Resources on Community Engagement and Partnerships
Implementing processes for participation in the policymaking process is a core tenant of developing meaningful community partnerships. There is an existing body of literature and resources for strengthening community engagement and partnership with CBOs. Organizations such as Camden Coalition and Community Catalyst have published resources that further detail strategies for contracting with CBOs and strategies for authentic community engagement in health care, among other examples (see More Resources on Community Engagement section).
Policy Levers: Practical Strategies for Engaging Communities
While specific examples of how states have engaged CBOs and communities in the grant process are highlighted throughout the toolkit, Figure 2 provides an overview of how states can build engagement into each step of the grant-making process. As detailed in later sections, state administrators will need to consult applicable state laws and procurement processes when engaging with applicants and may seek to partner with third-party intermediaries providing administrative support for CBOs.