Be Clear on What You Bring - And What You Don't
Outside organizations should not duplicate or compete with local organizations. Rather, they should complement and enhance local partners’ capacity to do conservation by channeling resources and leveraging results. Coming in with clarity about what you can offer in assistance is critical. Is it strategic or site planning that you bring? Science? Facilitation? Funding? Capacity-building? Access to other groups doing similar work? International exposure? These are often the most needed and valued services that an outside partner organization can provide. Discuss openly and honestly with potential local partners to understand their most pressing issues or needs and what your organization can and cannot do to assist.
“Part of it is to acknowledge what we can do and what we can’t. There are a variety of non-ecological issues that communities need and deserve help with. When we’re asked to help with those, we decline because it’s outside of what we do.”
Ensure You are Welcome
Be Clear on What You Bring - And What You Don't
Nurture Relationships and Partnerships
Identify Committed Influential Community Leaders
Establish a Shared Vision
Work Within the Communities Timeframe