The only way to know is to listen and learn.
In the case of this childcare community, the Director understands well the needs of the children and what support will ensure the children grow and prosper.
Physically visit the location you are supporting to ensure you understand the context
Ask those who are in the communities to share their goals and dreams
Develop solutions to challenges together – placing ownership on the community leadership
When local leadership participates in decision-making of how resources will be utilized, the possibility of success increases greatly. People deserve to own their own future, and global development professionals simply facilitate the resources to help make dreams come true.
How are you ensuring you know what communities really need?
I love the part about asking local individuals what their hopes and dreams are Gretchen. This is something I was completely overlooking with our new school project in Kasese, Uganda. I was so focused on providing them a "good education" that I overlooked how important it is to align that education with the dreams of our students. Keep up the great work! - Stu Mackenzie Angus
This is great