Preparing a Strategic Plan

The preparation of a strategic plan is a multi-step process covering vision, mission, objectives, values, strategies, goals and programs. These are discussed below.

The Vision, Mission or Purpose

The first step is to develop a realistic Vision, Mission or Purpose for the group. What has the group been formed for and what will it try and do? Here are two examples; one of a purpose statement and one of a vision:

Purpose

To work in partnership with the community to enhance the quality of life for each and every person in the community, with a special focus on resourcing those with least personal resources and young people.

Vision

By 2010, the Friends of Aileu will have:

Established strong links with the District Administration and people of Aileu,

Developed an enhanced capacity, in both Melbourne and in Aileu, to develop and implement projects to assist the people of Aileu to meet their goals Put in place successful projects, built on our past achievements, based on principles of self-sufficiency, sustainability and mutual capacity building

Created new initiatives, focused on social investment in young people, in both Melbourne and in Aileu.

The Values

The next element is to address the Values governing the operation of the group and its conduct or relationships with society at large, local group members, the local community and other stakeholders. Here is an example of a Values statement that a Friendship group produced: (Paul: Insert the following paragraph as side bar)

The Community Collective acknowledges that many people within its community are still suffering. In response to this condition the Collective will work towards being responsive to the many community needs and to the long term development of the community though ongoing community consultation. Development processes will be respectful and inclusive of traditional culture. It is important that the activities of the Collective are transparent and that support systems are developed to ensure that the community has access to information that will allow their involvement in community decision making. The Collective is committed to the principles of unity within the community, to a community free from discrimination where all men and women are equal and processes that are free from collusion, corruption and nepotism. The collective will also respect existing human rights conventions. Whilst appreciating the support and resourcing provided by the Australian Friends the community needs to take responsibility for itself and it own outcomes.

The Objectives and Goals of the Group.

What does the group want to achieve in the next three to five years? What are its priorities? Objectives and Goals are usually prioritized according to importance. Here is an example of the goals of a Friendship Agreement:

The priority Goals of the Friends of Baucau Strategic Plan 2005-2008 are:

Goal One: assist the realisation of the Baucau Buka Hatene friendship and learning centre

Goal Two: assist the realisation of Friends of Baucau projects in Baucau District

Goal Three: provide effective and efficient participation, management, and governance for Friends of Baucau

Goal Four: effective and efficient sourcing and management of funds

Goal Five: maintain partnerships and where appropriate, develop new strategic partnerships

Goal Six: provide appropriate resources and effective management support to the Friends of Baucau workers

Goal Seven: monitor and respond to changes in the political, economic and social environment

Goal Eight: raise community awareness of Friends of Baucau activities in the Cities of Darebin and Yarra

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