The NACG, thanks to the support of the New York Life Foundation, is creating a webinar series on Need Assessments which are scheduled in the Fall of 2023. We are partnering with Omni, experts in this area, to develop training specifically created for organizations serving bereaved children who are seeking to understand community needs and the resources required to meet them. The Needs Assessment training series provides a comprehensive and interactive learning experience, empowering participants with the essential skills and knowledge to effectively conduct needs assessments and leverage the resulting data for informed decision-making and program development. This training is in response to a request from professionals for support in creating needs assessments and gap analysis in reviewing past Grief Reach Grants. This training is available at no charge to all community-based childhood bereavement professionals, and are all welcome to register and join.
What is a needs assessment?
“A needs assessment helps you determine what needs to be accomplished to reach your project goals. This assessment of needs then informs a project’s overall plan and approaches by helping you identify targeted strategies and prioritize resources. Needs assessments serve as incredibly powerful tools for decision making, resource allocation, and ultimately reaching programmatic goals.” (NICHQ)
Training Outline
The Needs Assessment training series, along with accompanying technical assistance, is meticulously designed to equip participants with a solid foundational understanding to successfully engage in and complete an initial needs assessment process. Comprised of three comprehensive sessions, this training aims to provide a holistic knowledge base while facilitating the application of concepts through interactive components, discussions, and practical exercises. During the first session, participants will delve into the essential components of a needs assessment, exploring the ‘Why,’ ‘Who,’ ‘What,’ and ‘How’ of the process, with special emphasis on understanding the purpose and benefits for the key stakeholders involved in programming. The subsequent two sessions will further explore the intricacies of the ‘What’ and ‘How’ aspects, delving into the practical steps and techniques required for a comprehensive needs assessment. Additionally, the final training session will demonstrate how the gathered data from the needs assessment can be effectively utilized to enhance program planning.
Throughout each session, ample opportunities will be provided for participants to ask questions, engage in discussions, and actively participate in exercises. Concrete examples will be shared to illustrate key concepts, and participants will have dedicated time to practice and apply their newfound knowledge through the use of shared tools, templates, and resources centered around the needs assessment process.
Learning Objectives
- Increase their understanding of the purpose, benefits, and step-by-step approach involved in conducting a needs assessment.
- Enhance their knowledge and skills in data collection, gaps analysis, and interpretation, thereby strengthening their ability to execute effective needs assessment processes.
- Develop proficiency in utilizing needs assessment data for prioritization and more strategic program planning, resulting in the implementation of more impactful initiatives.
How It Works
Register for the three webinars below. Session recordings and tools will be made available to anyone unable to attend the live training; however, it is encouraged. Attending live will personalize your learning experience and allow for the opportunity to ask questions as the tools and information are shared. All those who intend to apply for a Grief Reach grant at any time in the future are encouraged to attend. At the close of the training, the playbacks and tools shared will be shared and available on an ongoing basis on the NACG website.
Register
Each topic includes a presentation session and a follow-up additional support session.
We encourage you to register for all six sessions to ensure you get the most out of this training.
Session #1: Community Assessment Overview (No CEs)
Tuesday, September 19 at 12pm to 1:30pm ET
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Additional Assessment Support Session (No CEs)
Thursday, September 21 at 12pm to 1:00pm ET
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Session #2: Data Sources and Data Collection for Community Assessment (No CEs)
Tuesday, October 17 at 12pm to 1:30pm ET
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Additional Assessment Support Session (No CEs)
Thursday, October 19 at 12pm to 1:00pm ET
Register Here →
Session #3: Using Data to Refine Program Strategies and Secure Funding (No CEs)
Tuesday, November 14 at 12pm to 1:30pm ET
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Additional Assessment Support Session (No CEs)
Thursday, November 16 at 12pm to 1:00pm ET