Dear Ms. Suber,
These are very good questions. In regard to how many objectives to develop, there is no set number. You should prepare a realistic number keeping in mind that these objectives are driving the work you do. Each objective should be tied to specific activities you will undertake. If you have too many then you will overload your capacity. The objectives should be closely tied to your mission and vision, but they do not have to specifically include key words. For example, if your mission is to improve the health of your community, one objective may be to reduce the rate of obesity by 5% by a certain date. This does not include the specific key words, but is directly tied to the mission.
Chapter 8 of the Community Toolbox, Sections 1 through 3 provide guidance for developing mission, vision and objectives. I hope you find them helpful.
Community Toolbox Advisor
