Limited Organizational Capacity

Every community faces barriers to engagement. While the context differs from place to place, many cities encounter similar patterns when trying to connect with residents, build trust, and sustain participation. Recognizing these challenges early allows leaders and partners to respond with approaches that are thoughtful, inclusive, and practical.

Barrier: Cities and their partners often operate with limited staff, funding, or time to sustain engagement work. This can slow progress and lead to burnout among core leaders.

Solution: Expand capacity through collaboration. Partner with nonprofits, congregations, schools, and local organizations that can share expertise and manpower. Create defined volunteer roles, such as event facilitators, outreach ambassadors, or data support, to channel community energy effectively. Provide leadership training to build confidence and shared ownership. Collaboration broadens capacity and builds long-term commitment.

See Build Partnerships and Collaborative Councils & Leveraging Volunteers