Answer each question:
1. The three basic components of any program plan:
a. It should have a belief statement that aims at achieving agreement regarding certain conflict.
b. It should have a clearly define mission statement that communicates the primary focus of the program.
c. It should contain program goals that are map in achieving the mission of the program.
2. Explain how a behavior theory or model is different than a program planning model, then explain how behavior models may be useful in program planning
Program planning model is a graphic representation that tries to implement the program in accordance with prior defined plan. On the other hand, behavior theory is a system that helps to understand human nature that is required to analyze a given plan. Thus, the behavior theory helps the organizations to identify program objectives and goals. Meanwhile, it identifies methods for facilitating behavior change and provides guidance about timing of the methods that are significant in the field of planning.
3. Describe the four different participant perspectives on need, and explain how understanding these may help you decide on priorities for your program (my program about Homelessness in Denver)
The need should be identified in order to analyze the available resources that are required in the accomplishment of the Homelessness in Denver program. Meanwhile, one should understand the objectives and goals required to meet the need of the program. There should be a need of training that will equip the staff will relevant skills in order to achieve the objectives and goals of Homelessness in Denver program. Finally, the participants should have relevant information that will ensure good communication in the process of program implementation.
4. Explain the differences between goals and objectives. Write one example of each (can be from your own program) Homelessness in Denver)
Any program should have goals and objectives that will help in achieving the intended performance and outcomes. Thus, the two concepts are related because one cannot achieve objectives without goals and verse versa. Goals are less structured and are permanent aims that one should complete. However, objectives are extremely concrete aims that are attained via following various steps. For instance, Homelessness in Denver objective is to reduce educational gaps that prevent children from having an excellent schooling experience. Meanwhile, Homelessness in Denver goal is a 75 percent reduction of severe homelessness within five years.
5. Prioritizing Problems and Needs: Using the Colorado Trust Needs Assessment Report on after-school programming in Colorado (see the attach), answer the questions below:
a. What is the target population and catchment area? What are the potential problems that may occur without after school programming?
The study focused to identify both priority needs and specific places requiring attention and support. Thus, it targeted a population of 250,000 Colorado children between the ages of 5 and 17 who are unsupervised after school. Potentials problems that can occur without after school programming include violence, delinquency, drug abuse among youth and other related behavior problems that can affect their learning and social development.
b. What is the community profile of this catchment area, regarding after school programs in public schools? What resources already exist?
Community profile on the priority needs like after school programming is extremely good because they aim at reducing behavior problems. They create opportunities for young people to participate in activities during after school hours. These activities include intramural sports, scouting, clubs and church sponsored youth groups. The community-based programs reflect the different needs of youth with gender, ethnic and socioeconomic differences. The community has created easy access of affordable after school programs via providing well-staffed and structured programs.
c. What are the gaps regarding these programs, as identified by the needs assessment?
First, there is low turnover of the youth who participate in the after school programs due to lack of resources. Secondly, the access of affordable and convenient after school program is limited to low income, ethnic minority and rural families. Thirdly, the program does not benefit immigrants and bilingual people because most of them speak Spanish. Thus, there is problem in employing and retaining bilingual and culturally qualified staff. Finally, most of the after school programs focus on elementary and middle school youths and avoid older youth.
d. Based on the gaps, describe how you would prioritize needs, based on at least three of the seven elements.
In order to reduce the gap described above, I would systematically evaluate and document the program at the local areas. Meanwhile, I would carefully assess the need and map their assets in order to improve their capability to afford the after school program. Meanwhile, there is need to provide schools and communities with resources that will promote their ability to plan. I would offer training and technical assistance to expand their capacity to deal with diverse needs.
6. Mission Statements - Read the Red Cross Mission Statement below and answer a and b :
Our Mission Statement
The American Red Cross, a humanitarian organization led by volunteers and guided by its Congressional Charter and the Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross Movement, will provide relief to victims of disasters and help people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies.
a. Fill in the table to Identify the following elements in the statement (if they are there):
Element
Is it included in statement? How and/or Where?
Identification of self-concept of the program
yes, the program is guided by its Congressional Charter and the Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross Movement
Statement of key elements, philosophy, values, Beliefs
Yes, the organization is a humanitarian.
Identification of catchment area and participant population
Yes, the mission statement focuses on the victims of disasters.
General characteristics of services offered
Yes, the organization will offer relief services.
Identification of desired impact
Yes, the organization will prevent, prepare and respond to emergences.
b. Critique this mission statement. Is it all that a mission statement should be? Why or why not?
The mission statement of American Red Cross is an example of how the mission statement should be as it focuses on purpose and objective of the organization. The mission statement addresses both what it wishes to complete and the way organization is to achieve this goal. In addition, the mission statement indicates why American Red Cross exists as organization.
