Many nonprofit organizations are finding that the timing is right to update their strategic plans, particularly given the changing landscape and disruptions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Having a strategic plan that clearly shows goals and strategies and includes stakeholder engagement is crucial to:

• Help nonprofits build capacity and prioritize scarce resources
• Lay the foundation for building partnerships
• Get feedback from a diversity of stakeholders about community needs and opportunities
• Create a framework that serves as a tool for communication with internal and external audiences
• Increase funding received from a wider diversity of donors

The Wayne Center for the Arts has a mission of enriching lives and strengthening communities through art. There are numerous ways that WCA programs are benefitting the quality of life for communities in Wayne County. WCA is uniquely situated in historic downtown Wooster, meaning it attracts visitors that also spend money on locally owned retail and restaurants. The center benefit youth through education programs, stimulating curiosity and teaching real skills. They offer numerous programs for adults – including retirees – which builds community, benefits mental health, and provides a source of joy.

However, more research and stakeholder engagement was needed to determine the most effective ways that WCA can strengthen communities, based upon existing assets and community priorities.

Incorporating stakeholder engagement early in the process has been demonstrated to lead to a more robust strategic plan with greater buy-in from the community and partner organizations. This project included staff and Board engagement, four community engagement sessions open to the public, and two partner engagement sessions for community leaders.

The final plan will include clearly defined outcomes and optimal pathways for achieving those outcomes.