By Linda Boone, National Long-Range Strategic Planning Committee Chair, and Ben Hendricks, ALA National Headquarters’ Executive Director 
 
 
Strategic planning is a process that helps an organization strengthen mission delivery.  It sets goals and priorities for how an organization uses its resources. For the Auxiliary, the National Executive Committee (NEC) is responsible for overseeing this process. The NEC reviews, modifies, and approves the goals and priorities recommended by the Long-Range Strategic Planning Committee.
 
A formal strategic planning process gives us clear and focused direction so we are not simply reacting to short-term needs or distracted from our mission. The plan helps align our work with our mission, and regular review keeps it on track. The strategic plan also creates accountability by setting measurable goals and tracking results. When communicated clearly, it also helps the organization adapt to changing risks and challenges so we remain resilient, relevant, and focused.


As an ALA member, you invest your time, money, and voice in our mission. Strategic planning, NEC oversight, and regular reporting help ensure that investment is managed responsibly. At each DEC meeting, your department NEC should provide an update so members can understand the status of strategic planning priorities, milestones, and progress.
 
In recent years, our organization has recognized the need for a more consistent strategic planning process. This was acknowledged by the 2025 National Convention delegates who approved establishing a Long-Range Strategic Planning Committee. The committee is comprised of five members serving staggered five-year terms, plus a Past National President from the national Finance Committee and ALA National Headquarters’ executive director and deputy executive director.  
 
At the 2026 National Convention, delegates will hear a report from the committee outlining the revised mission and vision statements and the strategic priorities approved by the NEC. Delegates then will be asked to endorse the plan.
 
How will a national strategic plan positively impact your unit?
National leadership has identified support for units as a key priority for the Long-Range Strategic Planning Committee. Units are the foundation of the Auxiliary and the place where our mission is carried out every day. The strategic plan should help guide the development of resources, tools, and support that make it easier for units to serve veterans, military, their families, and communities.
 
Comments or questions? Contact strategicplanning@ALAforVeterans.org.