Unfortunately needing a contribution from local associations
I believe the answer is:
alas
'unfortunately' is the definition.
('alas' is used to express regret)
'a contribution from local associations' is the wordplay.
'a contribution from' indicates a hidden word (the concealed answer 'contributes' to the clue).
'ALAS' can be found hidden inside 'local associations'.
'needing' acts as a link.
(Other definitions for alas that I've seen before include "Woeful expression" , "Regretfully!" , "Expression of grief or misfortune" , "Exclamation of misfortune" , "Proper, respectable" .)