Change the dynamic of the relationship with site partners to one of true partnership. Ask partners to prepare a proposal to host members. Use this proposal to clarify not only the objectives to be met at the site, but also the role the partner will play and resources the partner brings to the relationship. Develop and Support Strong Community Partnerships Community partnerships are the key to programmatic sustainability. Partners can help programs identify unmet community needs and strategies for addressing those needs.
Partners can also provide services to program staff and members.
Many successful programs ask their partners and host sites to contribute all or part of the match requirements. Re-Examine Program Design Regularly seek feedback regarding the design and continuous improvement of the program. Seek feedback from partners, members, staff, and community representatives. Ask for feedback regarding the structure of the program, the program's objectives, methods of meeting these objectives, and emerging community needs. Collect this information using a combination of surveys, focus groups, informal conversations, etc.