2: Adapting Needs Assessments in Times of Political Change: Conducting an LGBTQ+ Needs Assessment During the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election

Needs assessments are essential tools for identifying gaps, priorities, and opportunities within a community. A well-designed assessment incorporates defined outcome variables, evaluation methods, and analytical strategies—often shaped by community input. However, when a major political event disrupts the assessment process, how should researchers respond? This presentation explores the challenges and adaptations made during an LGBTQ+ needs assessment conducted amidst the 2024 U.S. presidential election. The evolving political landscape reshaped community perceptions of needs, necessitating methodological flexibility to authentically capture shifting priorities. We discuss strategies for synthesizing multiple data sources, adapting research frameworks in real time, and ensuring community-driven insights remain at the forefront of the assessment process.