YWCA Southeast Wisconsin

Sep 30

Partnering with YWCA Southeast Wisconsin and Global Policy Solutions, Inc., we co-created a strategic plan that aligned stakeholders, amplified community engagement, and charted a path for long-term impact over the next five years.

Motivation

After a period of organizational transition, YWCA Southeast Wisconsin aimed to realign its mission, clarify public perception, and respond more effectively to regional needs across Milwaukee and Racine. The goal was a strategic plan that would unite internal and external stakeholders around a shared vision while addressing community challenges through an equity-centered lens.

Approach

In partnership with Global Policy Solutions, we led a multi-phase planning process.

Activities

Stakeholder interviews, surveys, and synthesis of past planning efforts
Regional landscape and socioeconomic analysis
Review of internal and external communications to identify gaps and opportunities
Formation of an advisory committee to guide the process
A participatory two-day strategic retreat at Wingspread Retreat & Executive Conference Center, convening board members, staff, and community partners to co-develop priorities and strategies
Drafting detailed, actionable recommendations and designing final deliverables, including a 123-page report and a 20-page implementation slide deck

Outcomes

A unified strategic vision anchored in community-driven goals and measurable outcomes
Clear communication tools to align staff and board messaging with public-facing mission
A phased roadmap for operational and programmatic growth through 2028
Increased stakeholder trust and engagement across internal and external audiences

Leadership & Impact

By bringing together leaders during this pivotal moment, we transformed complexity into clarity. The inclusive, insight-rich planning process and actionable tools positioned YWCA Southeast Wisconsin to scale its mission and deepen regional impact.