Q: How can I tutor and support someone else in writing a needs statement for our grant proposal? No one ever seems to feel like they can do it.
A: The needs statement is one of the core elements of a grant proposal, but it doesn’t need to be a scary piece to write. In fact, the simpler the better. I use (and teach) a 5-part system for putting together your proposal’s priorities; two of them relate to the needs statement:
Facts and Figures: This is simply the context you are in. Who are your clients/participants? What are the top few issues they’re dealing with? What are some current trends that make those issues so pressing? Are there research data or statistics that can back you up?
Importance of the issue: If you were telling a stranger why they should care about this issue what would you say? Don’t assume the answer is obvious. If they asked you, “So what?” would you have a clear answer? Outline what is at stake if that issue were not addressed. If you’re proposing a specific project or program, talk about how it’s a priority for you in working toward your organization’s overall mission.
Here are a couple of examples:
1) ABC is one of the few local nonprofit pre-schools that maintain a private, enclosed, outdoor playground adjacent to the classrooms. Our playground provides the children with safe, convenient, age-appropriate opportunities for outdoor activity several times a day. By offering this venue for exercise, imaginative play, and socialization, we are establishing healthy habits early in the children’s lives.
Play structures, toys, and games are all part of this urban playground. The main playground structure, largely made of wood, was installed more than 10 years ago. Due to its exposure to inclement weather during that time, it is now in need of re-sanding and re-sealing to continue to ensure the children’s safety and enjoyment.
2) Many seniors experience physical or mental functional decline, but they can still enjoy a meal and live independently. The reality is that low-income, frail seniors — especially those without families or other regular caregivers to help them with meals – are often forced to eat “cheap” food: packaged ramen noodles, snacks from convenience stores, or randomly donated food. All of these foods are typically high in salt, fat, and carbs and are not recommended for seniors with health conditions.
As a result, their nutrition, and thus overall health, status is often compromised. They run a high risk of requiring an early move to a nursing facility: exactly the outcome our organization strives to avoid.
If you are supporting someone else through the process of writing a needs statement, go through the above questions with them. Try it orally at first and see what you can come up with. Take notes or record your conversation. Then offer feedback along the way and set up the expectation that everyone needs at least two drafts to get it right (maybe more).
PS: You can find more “”Ask Dalya” questions and answers HERE.
