I’ve got some game changing advice for you. ????
—> When it comes to program planning and development, involve people who have PERSONALLY lived through the challenges and problems your program will address.
—> Folks with lived experiences have a story to tell that you need to hear. Their input can inform your strategies with insights on things like participation barriers and service gaps, delivery methods and dosage, and most importantly – correcting false assumptions.
—> Many grant funders – especially federal grant makers – want (or require) program development to have meaningful involvement from people with lived experiences. Grant or no grant, start now giving voice to your target population.
This act of INCLUSION will not only impact the success and sustainability of your programs, it’s also the right thing to do. ????