The New England Cycling Coalition for Diversity (NECCD) is committed to fostering a more inclusive and diverse cycling community. Our strategic plan sets clear objectives to achieve this vision, focusing on increased participation, community engagement, and education.

Key goals include a 25% rise in diverse participation at cycling events over the next two years, regular community rides to celebrate diversity, and quarterly inclusivity training sessions for local cycling groups. We plan to amplify our reach through targeted social media campaigns and partnerships with community organizations.

Financial sustainability is critical to our strategy. We will adopt a diversified funding approach, combining grants, sponsorships, and fundraising activities. Our budgeting and financial management will be tightly aligned with our mission objectives.

The impact of our initiatives will be measured through participation rates, diversity metrics, and training effectiveness. Regular evaluations will guide our strategy adjustments, ensuring continuous improvement and growth.

Risk management forms a key part of our strategy, with thorough risk analysis and contingency planning in place. We are prepared to adapt our operations and offerings to meet evolving community needs and ensure NECCD's long-term sustainability.

This strategic plan is a roadmap for our organization and a commitment to creating a cycling culture where everyone feels welcome and valued. We invite our stakeholders and the broader community to join us in this important and transformative journey.

Mission Statement

The NECCD mission is to help facilitate changes that would make each of our organizations more widely welcoming. How will we accomplish this? We plan to have ongoing, open and welcoming discussions, rides and other events that emphasize diversity.

We look to provide inspiration, education, resources, and people-power to help everyone imagine and achieve greater diversity in their rides. Each coalition organization and member can decide how best to move toward greater inclusivity, both within their own clubs and through NECCD initiatives.

Vision Statement

Our vision at the New England Cycling Coalition for Diversity (NECCD) is cultivating a cycling community where diversity is accepted and celebrated. We envision a future where everyone feels an integral part of the cycling world regardless of background or demographic. We aim to see cycling transform into a universally inclusive activity, rich in cultural diversity and mutual respect, where every ride and event demonstrates and supports the unity and strength of our differences.

Values

NECCD values the advancement and enjoyment of cycling for all people through:

promoting justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion on a bike
organizing rides that highlight the history of diversity in cycling
bringing diverse cycling groups together
educating the cycling community on inclusive best practices

Our Guiding Principles

Inclusivity and Diversity: We champion a cycling environment where everyone is welcomed and embraced, regardless of background or identity. Our commitment is to create spaces in cycling that are diverse, equitable, and inclusive.

Community Engagement: We believe in the power of community to drive change. We focus on building strong, collaborative relationships within the cycling community and beyond, fostering a sense of belonging and collective purpose.

Education and Awareness: We are dedicated to educating cyclists and the broader community about the importance of diversity and inclusivity. We aim to enlighten and inspire positive change through awareness campaigns, workshops, and events.

Sustainability and Stewardship: Our approach is grounded in sustainability, ensuring that our efforts to promote diversity in cycling are enduring and impactful. We are stewards of the cycling community, committed to its continuous growth and improvement.

Respect and Empathy: At the core of our values is a deep seated respect for all individuals. We strive for an environment where empathy guides interactions and every person's story and experience is honored.

Innovation and Adaptability: We value innovative approaches to problem solving and are adaptable in our strategies. Embracing change and new ideas is key to our mission, ensuring we remain effective and relevant in a constantly evolving landscape.

Goals and Objectives

Goal 1: Enhance Diversity in Cycling Participation

Objective 1.1: Increase the participation of underrepresented groups in cycling events by 25% within the next two years.

Objective 1.2: Host quarterly community rides specifically designed to attract and welcome diverse groups of cyclists.

Goal 2: Promote Educational Initiatives on Inclusivity

Objective 2.1: Develop and distribute educational materials focused on inclusivity in cycling by the end of 2026.

Objective 2.2: Organize biannual workshops and seminars on fostering inclusivity for cycling groups and event organizers.

Goal 3: Strengthen Community Engagement and Collaboration

Objective 3.1: Establish partnerships with at least five other community organizations or cycling clubs to promote diversity in cycling by the next quarter.

Objective 3.2: Create a monthly forum or discussion group to engage the cycling community on diversity and inclusivity topics.

Goal 4: Expand Outreach and Awareness Campaigns

Objective 4.1: Launch a social media campaign to raise awareness about diversity in cycling, aiming to reach 10,000 individuals in six months.

Objective 4.2: Coordinate with local media twice a year to feature stories and events highlighting diversity in the cycling community.

Goal 5: Foster a Sustainable and Inclusive Cycling Environment

Objective 5.1: Implement a yearly survey to gather feedback on the inclusivity of NECCD events and programs starting from the upcoming fiscal year.

Objective 5.2: Develop a sustainability plan for long term inclusivity initiatives, including funding strategies, to be completed in the next fiscal year.

Target Audience and Stakeholder Analysis

Target Audience:

1. Local Cycling Clubs and Organizations: Engage with existing cycling clubs and organizations to promote inclusivity within their groups and events.

2. Underrepresented Groups in Cycling: Focus on reaching individuals from diverse backgrounds, including but not limited to different races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientation, and abilities, who are currently underrepresented in the cycling community.

3. Community Organizations and Nonprofits: Collaborate with other community organizations and nonprofits that may not be directly related to cycling but share a common goal of promoting diversity and inclusivity.

Stakeholders:

1. Local Businesses and Sponsors: Businesses and corporate sponsors who can provide financial or material support, especially those with a vested interest in community and social responsibility.

2. Government and Municipal Agencies: Local government bodies responsible for community development, transportation, and public health. Their policies and support can significantly impact cycling infrastructure and culture.

3. Cycling Advocacy Groups: National and regional cycling advocacy groups that can offer broader support, resources, and networking opportunities.

4. Volunteers and Staff Members: Individuals who directly contribute their time and effort to NECCD's initiatives, essential for the successful implementation of programs.

5. Media Outlets: Local and regional media that can help amplify NECCD's message and raise public awareness about its activities and causes.

Programs and Services

1. Inclusive Ride Series

Description: Regularly scheduled cycling events designed to be welcoming and accessible to cyclists of all backgrounds and skill levels. These rides will highlight various cultural themes and promote community and understanding among diverse groups.

Implementation: Monthly rides organized in different locations, ensuring broad accessibility. Routes and themes will be selected to showcase the diversity of the cycling community and local history.

2c. Annual Cycling Clubs Survey

Description: An annual survey of local cycling clubs to gather data on inclusivity and diversity within these clubs. The survey, implemented in cooperation with each club, aims to identify areas of success, challenges, and opportunities for improvement.

Implementation: Develop and distribute to various cycling clubs a comprehensive survey. Analyze the results to gauge the current landscape of inclusivity in cycling clubs and to inform NECCD’s future initiatives.

2a. Impact and Evaluation:

Survey and Report Analysis: The effectiveness of these initiatives will be evaluated based on the survey's response rate, the usefulness of the data collected, and the reach and reception of the "State of Cycling" report. Feedback from stakeholders will be used to refine these initiatives annually.

2b. "State of Cycling" Annual Report

Strategy: Compile and publish an annual "State of Cycling" report based on survey data, NECCD's activities, and broader trends in the cycling community. This report will serve as a key resource for understanding and promoting diversity and inclusivity in cycling.

Implementation: Utilize data from the annual cycling clubs survey, NECCD's internal data, and relevant cycling trends.

Distribution: The report will be made available digitally and through print and promoted via NECCD’s communication channels, at events, and through media partners.

4. Online Resource Hub

Description: An online platform providing resources, guides, and educational materials on diversity and inclusivity in cycling.

Implementation: Develop and maintain a website with downloadable content, including best practices for inclusivity in cycling, success stories, and a calendar of inclusive cycling events.

5. Community Outreach and Partnership Program

Description: A program aimed at building relationships with local organizations, schools, cycling shops, and cycling clubs to foster a more inclusive cycling culture.

Implementation: Regular meetings and collaborative events with community partners focus on joint initiatives promoting cycling inclusivity.

6. Diversity in Cycling Workshops

Description: Educational workshops and seminars promoting inclusivity within the cycling community. These sessions will provide practical guidance on creating welcoming environments in cycling clubs and events.

Implementation: Biannual workshops led by experts in diversity and inclusivity, with special sessions tailored for cycling event organizers and club leaders.

7. Advocacy and Awareness Campaigns

Description: Campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of diversity and inclusivity in cycling, both online and in local communities.

Implementation: Utilize social media, local media partnerships, and community events to spread awareness and advocate for inclusive cycling practices.

8. Volunteer Engagement Program

Description: A structured program to recruit, train, and engage volunteers in supporting NECCD's initiatives.

Implementation: Regular volunteer training sessions, creation of a volunteer recognition program, and opportunities for volunteers to lead or participate in various NECCD projects.

Marketing and Outreach Strategy

1. Digital Marketing and Social Media

Objectives:

Increase NECCD’s visibility and engagement online.
Create a community around cycling inclusivity.

Actions:

Regularly update social media with relevant content, including event announcements, success stories, and educational materials.
Use targeted advertising to reach specific demographics on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok.

2. Community Collaboration and Engagement

Objectives:

Build strong relationships with local communities and cycling groups.
Promote NECCD’s mission at the grassroots level.

Actions:

Partner with local businesses, schools, and community organizations for events and programs.
Host and participate in community events to promote inclusivity in cycling.

3. Media Relations

Objectives:

Gain media coverage to broaden NECCD’s reach.
Position NECCD as a thought leader in cycling inclusivity.

Actions:

Develop press releases for major events and initiatives.
Build relationships with local media outlets and bloggers in the cycling and community sectors.

4. Educational Outreach

Objectives:

Educate the public and cycling community about the importance of diversity and inclusivity.
Provide resources and training to encourage inclusive practices.

Actions:

Develop and distribute educational materials online and at events.
Organize workshops and seminars on inclusivity in cycling.

5. Branding and Promotional Campaigns

Objectives:

Establish a strong, recognizable brand for NECCD.
Create promotional materials that resonate with diverse audiences.

Actions:

Develop a cohesive branding strategy for all NECCD materials and communications.
Create and distribute promotional items like flyers, posters, and merchandise (e.g. NECCD kit).

6. Ambassador and Volunteer Program

Objectives:

Leverage the passion and reach of volunteers and ambassadors.
Create a network of advocates for cycling inclusivity.

Actions:

Recruit and train volunteers and ambassadors committed to NECCD’s mission.
Organize ambassador-led events and outreach activities in various communities.

7. Annual "State of Cycling" Report and Survey

Objectives:

Provide insightful data and analysis on cycling inclusivity trends.
Establish NECCD as a key informational resource in the cycling community.

Actions:

Conduct an annual survey of cycling clubs to gather data on inclusivity practices.
Compile and publish a comprehensive "State of Cycling Diversity in New England" report based on survey results and NECCD’s work.

8. Strategic Partnerships

Objectives:

Collaborate with organizations and businesses to amplify impact.
Gain additional resources and expertise through partnerships.

Actions:

Identify and establish partnerships with organizations that align with NECCD’s values and goals.
Work collaboratively on joint initiatives and cross-promotion.

Operational Plan (What we are going to do internally to achieve the objectives outlined above)

Organizational Structure

Core Team: A small team comprising an Executive Director, a Program and Outreach Coordinator, and a Finance and Administrative Coordinator. This team will oversee program execution, and day-to-day operations.

Volunteers: A group of dedicated volunteers who support various activities, managed by the Program and Outreach Coordinator.

Program Operations

Inclusive Ride Series:

Plan and organize monthly rides, leveraging volunteer support for logistics and execution.

Educational Initiatives:

Coordinate annual workshops or seminars on cycling inclusivity, utilizing external experts when needed.

Marketing and Communications

Digital Presence:

Maintain an active social media presence and a basic yet informative website.

Regularly update the community on events, initiatives, and cycling inclusivity tips.

Community Outreach:

Engage with local cycling clubs and community groups to promote NECCD's activities and goals.

Financial Management

Budgeting:

Manage a lean budget, focusing on essential expenditures and maximizing the impact of every dollar spent.

Fundraising Efforts:

Conduct targeted fundraising campaigns, including small-scale local events and online donation drives.

Volunteer Engagement

Recruitment and Management:

Recruit volunteers through community outreach and social media.

Assign roles based on volunteers' skills and interests, ensuring meaningful engagement.

Risk Management and Compliance

Risk Monitoring:

Regularly review potential risks, particularly those related to events and volunteer activities.

Legal and Regulatory Compliance:

Ensure adherence to relevant laws, including those of nonprofit operations and fundraising.

Performance Monitoring and Feedback

Evaluation:

Track the success of programs through participant feedback and attendance rates.

Continuous Improvement:

Use feedback and evaluation results to refine programs and strategies.

Financial Plan

1. Initial Funding and Startup Capital

Objective: Secure initial funding to cover startup costs and first year operations.

Sources:

Personal contributions from board members.
Crowdfunding campaigns targeted at the local community and cycling enthusiasts.
Grants from local businesses with corporate social responsibility programs and from foundations supporting community initiatives.

2. Budgeting and Allocation

Objective: Develop a lean and effective budget focusing on key operational areas.

Areas of Focus:

Program Costs: Expenses related to organizing cycling events and educational workshops.
Marketing and Outreach: Costs for digital marketing, promotional materials, and community events.
Administrative Expenses: Basic administrative costs, including website hosting, legal fees, and insurance.

3. Ongoing Fundraising Strategies

Objective: Establish a sustainable funding model to support ongoing operations.

Methods:

Annual fundraising events such as community rides or charity auctions.
Membership fees for cyclists wanting to join NECCD offer benefits like discounts on events and merchandise.
Ongoing online donation campaigns utilizing platforms like GoFundMe or Patreon.

4. Financial Management and Reporting

Objective: Ensure transparent and effective financial management practices.

Actions:

Use simple, reliable accounting software to track income and expenses.
Prepare and review quarterly financial reports.
Conduct an annual financial audit, either internally or by an external auditor.

5. Long-Term Financial Planning

Objective: Develop a long-term financial strategy to ensure sustainability and growth.

Considerations:

Diversify income sources to reduce dependency on a single funding type.
Explore the potential for sponsorships and partnerships with cycling-related and other businesses.
Plan a reserve fund to cover unexpected expenses or support future expansion.

6. Risk Management

Objective: Identify and mitigate financial risks.

Strategies:

Maintain a conservative approach in the initial years, avoiding overcommitment of resources.
Establish an emergency fund to manage unforeseen financial shortfalls.
Regularly review and adjust financial strategies based on operational performance and external economic factors.

Evaluation and Impact Assessment (This is for how others look at the impact of NECCD’s activities) – Appendix

1. Program Evaluation Metrics

Objective: Assess the effectiveness and impact of each program and initiative.

Metrics:

Participant numbers and diversity demographics in cycling events and workshops.

Pre- and post-event surveys to gauge participant satisfaction and learning outcomes.

Number and quality of partnerships and collaborations established.

2. Community Feedback and Engagement

Objective: Gather feedback from the community to inform continuous improvement.

Methods:

Online feedback forms available after each event or program.
Community forums or discussion groups, both online and in-person, to gather qualitative feedback.
Social media engagement metrics, including comments, shares, and likes.

3. Financial Performance Review

Objective: Ensure financial resources are being utilized effectively and sustainably.

Review Elements:

Comparison of actual spending against the budget.
Analysis of fundraising campaign effectiveness.
Return on investment for marketing and outreach efforts.

4. Volunteer Engagement and Satisfaction

Objective: Evaluate the effectiveness of the volunteer program.

Indicators:

Volunteer retention rates and frequency of participation.
Volunteer feedback surveys to assess satisfaction and areas for improvement.
Impact of volunteers on program success and community engagement.

5. Annual Impact Report

Objective: Compile an annual report summarizing achievements, challenges, and areas for growth.

Components:

Overview of program metrics and achievements.
Financial summary and future financial goals.
Testimonials and stories from community members and participants.
Strategic goals for the upcoming year based on evaluation findings.

6. Continuous Monitoring and Adaptive Management

Objective: Implement a dynamic approach to program management based on ongoing monitoring and evaluation.

Process:

Regularly review program metrics and feedback to identify trends or issues.
Adapt and modify programs and strategies in response to feedback and changing community needs.
Engage with stakeholders to discuss evaluation findings and incorporate their insights into future planning.

Risk Management and Contingency Plans

Burn-out

Board expansion

Accident

1. Identification of Key Risks

Operational Risks: Including event cancellations, low participation, volunteer shortages, or partnership challenges.

Financial Risks: Such as funding shortfalls, unexpected expenses, or inefficient budget management.

Reputational Risks: Including negative publicity, social media mismanagement, or community backlash.

Compliance Risks: Related to legal requirements, insurance coverage, or health and safety regulations.

2. Risk Mitigation Strategies

Operational Risks:

Develop a robust event planning process with contingency plans for cancellations or changes.
Implement a volunteer recruitment and retention program to ensure adequate staffing.

Financial Risks:

Diversify funding sources to reduce reliance on single streams.
Implement strict budgeting controls and regular financial reviews.

Reputational Risks:

Establish a crisis communication plan.
Monitor social media channels actively and engage professionally with the community.

Compliance Risks:

Regularly review and update knowledge of legal requirements.
Ensure proper insurance coverage for events and activities.

3. Contingency Plans

Event Cancellations: Have backup dates or virtual alternatives for major events.
Funding Shortfalls: Maintain an emergency fund and have plans for scaled-back operations if needed.
Volunteer Shortages: Develop a pool of on-call volunteers and collaborate with other organizations for volunteer sharing.
Negative Publicity: Prepare response templates and designate spokespeople for dealing with media.

4. Regular Review and Updating of Risk Management Plans

Objective: Ensure risk management strategies and contingency plans remain effective and relevant.

Process:

Conduct a biannual review of all risk management plans.
Update plans based on recent experiences, changes in the external environment, or organizational changes.

5. Training and Awareness

Objective: Ensure all team members and volunteers know risk factors and are trained in risk management procedures.

Implementation:

Provide regular training sessions on risk management.
Include risk management as a standing agenda item in team meetings.

6. Documentation and Record Keeping

Objective: Maintain detailed records of risk assessments, mitigation strategies, and instances where contingency plans were enacted.

Implementation:

Use a centralized system for documenting risk management activities.
Regularly update and archive records for easy access and review.

Sustainability Plan

Financial Stability

Diversify funding through donations, grants, and income-generating events.
Establish a reserve fund for financial security.
Explore mission-aligned revenue-generating activities.

Program Continuity

Adapt programs based on feedback and community needs.
Strengthen partnerships for support and collaboration.
Train volunteers for consistent program delivery.

Community and Partnership Engagement

Organize regular community events and workshops for engagement.
Form strategic partnerships with local entities.
Participate actively in relevant community initiatives.

Environmental Responsibility

Implement eco-friendly practices in events and operations.
Educate on sustainable cycling practices.
Pursue green initiatives like paperless operations.

Leadership and Staff Development

Invest in staff and volunteer professional development.
Foster leadership skills and innovative thinking.
Plan for leadership succession.

Adaptability

Stay informed about sector trends and changes.
Maintain a flexible and innovative organizational culture.
Regularly update strategic plans to stay relevant.

Impact Assessment

Develop clear metrics for program impact.
Produce annual reports detailing achievements and plans.
Use impact data for program refinement and funding.

Conclusion

In closing, the New England Cycling Coalition for Diversity (NECCD) is set on a path to enrich the cycling community with inclusivity and diversity. This strategic plan is our blueprint for meaningful change. We acknowledge the challenges, yet the transformative potential of our mission inspires us.

We are committed to building an inclusive cycling environment where every cyclist is valued. This journey calls for collaboration, innovation, and resilience. We invite our community, members, and partners to join us in this vital endeavor.

NECCD represents a movement towards a unified cycling community that celebrates diversity. With this strategic plan as our guide, we look forward to a future where our collective efforts create a lasting impact in the cycling world. We look forward to a world that is collaborative, inclusive, and harmonious. Together, we embark on this journey with optimism and a shared commitment to making a difference.

Table of Contents

Executive Summary

Mission Statement

Vision Statement

Values

Our Guiding Principles

Goals and Objectives

Goal 1: Enhance Diversity in Cycling Participation

Goal 2: Promote Educational Initiatives on Inclusivity

Goal 3: Strengthen Community Engagement and Collaboration

Goal 4: Expand Outreach and Awareness Campaigns

Goal 5: Foster a Sustainable and Inclusive Cycling Environment

Target Audience and Stakeholder Analysis

Target Audience:

Stakeholders:

Programs and Services

1. Inclusive Ride Series

2c. Annual Cycling Clubs Survey

2a. Impact and Evaluation:

Survey and Report Analysis: The effectiveness of these initiatives will be evaluated based on the survey's response rate, the usefulness of the data collected, and the reach and reception of the "State of Cycling" report. Feedback from stakeholders will be used to refine these initiatives annually.

2b. "State of Cycling" Annual Report

4. Online Resource Hub

5. Community Outreach and Partnership Program

6. Diversity in Cycling Workshops

7. Advocacy and Awareness Campaigns

8. Volunteer Engagement Program

Marketing and Outreach Strategy

1. Digital Marketing and Social Media

2. Community Collaboration and Engagement

3. Media Relations

4. Educational Outreach

5. Branding and Promotional Campaigns

6. Ambassador and Volunteer Program

7. Annual "State of Cycling" Report and Survey

8. Strategic Partnerships

Operational Plan (What we are going to do internally to achieve the objectives outlined above)

Organizational Structure

Program Operations

Marketing and Communications

Financial Management

Volunteer Engagement

Risk Management and Compliance

Performance Monitoring and Feedback

Financial Plan

1. Initial Funding and Startup Capital

2. Budgeting and Allocation

3. Ongoing Fundraising Strategies

4. Financial Management and Reporting

5. Long-Term Financial Planning

6. Risk Management

Evaluation and Impact Assessment (This is for how others look at the impact of NECCD’s activities) – Appendix

1. Program Evaluation Metrics

2. Community Feedback and Engagement

3. Financial Performance Review

4. Volunteer Engagement and Satisfaction

5. Annual Impact Report

6. Continuous Monitoring and Adaptive Management

Risk Management and Contingency Plans

Burn-out

1. Identification of Key Risks

2. Risk Mitigation Strategies

3. Contingency Plans

4. Regular Review and Updating of Risk Management Plans

5. Training and Awareness

6. Documentation and Record Keeping

Sustainability Plan

Financial Stability

Program Continuity

Community and Partnership Engagement

Environmental Responsibility

Leadership and Staff Development

Adaptability

Impact Assessment

Conclusion