Metro Magazine, November 2020

14 METRO MAGAZINE COM NOVEMBER 2020vide valuable input Specific outreach strategies may look different for different demographics In some neighborhoods the best places to go are farmers markets swap meets or the local grocery mart For others going to senior centers bingo nights and school districts to help reach multicultural and generational audiences may work Advertisements promotions and public service announcements within ethnic media provide direct links while business civic and residential organizations offer a chance to use established mediums for presentations or information distribution via newsletter Partner with local community based organizations and potentially even hire them to help gather information Trusted community resources with deep roots within the community can aid in creating a deeper connection to the community They can become the voice of the project initiative or program as well as relay concerns that the community doesnt feel comfortable conveying to a planning agency There is no better way to deliver project messaging then through community ambassadors talking about a project Formalize feedback and contributions by establishing community liaison groups or committees made up of diverse representatives of the community These committees come together at critical milestones in the planning process to learn about the project share information and ideas and identify issues and concerns so they can be addressed within the process and shared back out to members This It is imperative that all communications materials and presentations or engagement opportunities are accessible This means communications are produced in languages the audience understands and are easily accessible for those with physical disabilities It also means considering audiences who do not have access to technology Effectively reaching your target audiences can include both traditional boots on the ground outreach along with digital tools that offer convenient options for people to become informed and proand support will bridge the communication and relational divide between owner agencies and their constituents LISTEN TO PEOPLE WITH RESPECT It is imperative to gather substantive community feedback This both creates a more successful project and allows the community to understand how to spend money thoughtfully wisely and equitably This kind of engagement doesnt come from a typical public meeting It comes from a strategic engagement and analysis effort based on inclusion and collaboration Here are a few considerations and tips based on our experience in communities across the U S The heart of a successful outreach and engagement program is to go to people where they are Make it easy for them to engage and provide feedback dont force people to choose between dinner with their family and contributing to your project Try to mitigate barriers to attending events such as a potential lack of childcare Understand your audience how do they engage and communicate Where do they get their information Who do they trust Identify and use trusted communications tools and methods to open the conversation Good places to start include community leaders both formal and informal alternative and ethnic media outlets community service organizations faith based organizations schools and public events SPECIAL REPORT INCLUSION An equitable public transportation system ensures that communities will evolve grow successfully and continue to sustain their quality of life for generations to come By facilitating an effective two way dialogue that is authentic to each community members of the target audience are more likely to feel comfortable expressing their concerns