The Welfare Association’s overall strategy for development hinges on promoting self-reliance through high-impact, long-term development projects and empowerment of community-based organizations. To carry out this strategy, the Association regularly coordinates workshops, seminars and symposia, bringing together Palestinians from the Diaspora and Palestine to stimulate research and discussion on economic and social development issues. The outcomes of these activities helps the Welfare Association formulate its course of action within a realistic context. These regular needs assessments have allowed the Welfare Association to evolve and refine its strategies to reflect the changing social and economic priorities of the Palestinian people, from what began as a program of relief and aid for Palestinians in Lebanon in 1983, to supporting the “steadfastness” of local institutions in Palestine especially during the 1988-1991 Intifada. The Welfare Association subsequently redefined this strategy in 1993-1994 after extensive study of the emerging development options following the Declaration of Principles and establishment of the Palestinian National Authority.

The strategy that has been followed since 1996 is an integrated and pro-active programmatic approach to development and reconstruction, with strong project management support for its core programs. By channeling technical and financial support to targeted organizations, this strategy aims to have significant nationwide impact for today's population and for future generations.

In 2001, the Welfare Association has responded to the needs of the Palestinian population for emergency assistance during the second Intifada through a special appeal for emergency funds and allocated donations for humanitarian relief of the injured, unemployed and especially needy families.