Starting 1 July, any club or district that applies for a global grant to support a humanitarian project or a vocational training team will need to conduct a community assessment first and include the results in their grant application. Assessing the strengths, weaknesses, needs, and assets of the community you’re helping is an essential first step in planning an effective project. Not only do assessments lead to projects that have the most meaningful impact. The process itself builds valuable relationships, involves residents in decisions that will shape their communities, and encourages them to participate in making lasting improvements. Most important, projects that are informed by community assessments are more sustainable. You can use district grant funds to conduct the assessment. Rotary’s Community Assessment Tools has ideas and proven methods for assessing a community’s assets and needs, including meetings, surveys, interviews, and focus groups. | 
