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Question:
I have a question on monitoring and evaluations. I was asked to set up a monitoring and evaluation system to monitor rural development grants/projects funded by government sources. My question is -how will I go about this, what basic things do I need to start with, what tools do I need? grateful for your assistance on this.
Answer:

Happy July 4, Milfred, and thanks for contacting CTB.  I want to refer you to our Table of Contents under the Learn A Skill tab.  There you will find four chapters (36 - 39) and a related Toolkit (12) that will introduce you to the basics of Monitoring and Evaluation. (&E).
Actually, the foundation for effective M&E is built much earlier in the life of the project - during the planning stages when goals are formulated, desired and measurable outcomes are defined, and methods for measuring are selected.  You can find relevant guidance in earlier CTB chapters.
You may need to go back to other project participants and help them define what outcomes they seek, and related measures.  These projects take a lot of collaboration, a critical skill that often goes unappreciated.
Best wishes for a successful project!

Question Date: Vie, 07/03/2015
Question:
How do I coordinate a group of students collect data? This is my first time to do such a duty I do not know much about data collection. Before I lead the students I would like to know the basics first. Please reply
Answer:

Hi Vellyn.  Thanks for contacting CTB.  I want to refer you to Chapter 3 in our Table of Contents under the Learn A Skill tab.  That chapter and the related Toolkit will give you a very comprehensive introduction to decisions about data collection and will suggest questions you may need to take back to the organization wanting the data, in order to clarify what they really want to derive from the data.
There is a lot of information in that chapter and toolkit, so look through it and feel free to ask follow-up questions if we can be of further help.
Best wishes for success in your new role.

Question Date: Sáb, 07/04/2015
Question:
Dear Advisor,

Hoping that all is well with you.

I sincerely commend the organization and composition of the community tool kit; its rich content very robust and holistic.

Please i humbly wish to request:

1. How can we possibly be trained in its use and as a train the trainer.
2. Is it feasible to have a complete kit from your organization?

The tool kit is very holistic and would go a long way to provide us with the skill useful in improving not only our organization but improving service provision for betterment of our communities here in Nigeria.

Thank you
Answer:

Hi Silas, and thanks for contacting CTB.
In response to your first Question, please click on our Services graphic and then on Training Curriculum.  You will find an outline of the available training modules.  Then contact Christina Holt to work out the best way to carry out the training you desire.  Look also at the Online Documentation and Support System.  Christina can help you determine which resource (or both) may best fit your needs.
In response to your second Question, the CTB materials are not available in hard copy, but you can feel free to print any pages you may need.  However, please see our Use Policy by clicking that small blue label at the bottom of the Training page if you plan to use printed materials from CTB for other than personal use.
One of our hopes is that CTB helps people of all nations to develop and improve services.  We wish you well as your own work proceeds.

Question Date: Lun, 07/06/2015
Question:
I am a graduate student that would like to use some of the information in section 8 titled "identifying and analyzing stakeholders and their interests". How do I properly cite the information from your website? Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
Answer:

Hi Lori, and thanks for contacting CTB.  Please go to the bottom of our home page and find the "Use Policy" label in small blue letters.  That will provide the information you have requested.

Question Date: Lun, 07/06/2015
Question:
We have a problem in our community with educational attainment. Roughly 40% of 18-24 year olds in our community do not go on to college. 35% of them have no high school diploma. What can we do to get started to implement a Degrees Matter program. I don't know where to start. At first I wrote a 15 minute speech citing statistics of education attainment and median household income compared to similar small towns doing a lot better job of encouraging education. I thought funding a better library program would be a great place to start but after speaking with the library director she said that we didn't need to make improvements as funding is already coming in that respect.

I want this community to do better than being known as the infamous prison town that it is. With a median household income of about 39000.

Thank you for your help.
Answer:

Hi Austin, and thanks for contacting CTB.
It sounds to me like you face a community organization challenge that will involve identifying other people (including parents and youth) and organizations concerned about the future well-being of children raised in your community, seeing whether they are interested in this issue/need, and recruiting them as allies to help expand educational resources in your community. Other potential allies might include your school district, employers who need well-educated employees, your community college and vocational training organizations, labor unions, workforce development programs, the library, youth serving organizations, pastors and others.
An important first step might be to just get acquainted with key leaders of those organizations. Consider writing a brief (one page) statement describing the need as you see it, and ask others to help refine it. Approach the effort as a collaboration to expand educational success, rather than as criticism of current efforts.
I have checked three competencies that will help you get started. As you go, others will come into play. Community-building process does not follow a straight line. Feel free to continue using CTB and to ask follow-up questions.
Expect that all this will take time and energy. Be patient but persistent. If you learn that the effort may succeed better under the lead of another ally, be willing to shift formal leadership but continue to participate. What you hope to accomplish is very important ,and more than one person can accomplish alone.
We wish you success and appreciate your coiurage.

Question Date: Lun, 07/06/2015
Question:
Do you have any recommendations for tools to use in starting a school based health center in a high school community that is experiencing economic hardship? I'm thinking how to orient parents, educators, and residents at large to services available? Also, wanting to start at Health Club and looking for tips on engaging students. Thanks.
Answer:

Hi Laura and thanks for contacting CTB.
It seems to me that developing a school-based health center involves several different types of activity. First is finding and recruiting people (parents, students, teachers, school authorities, and public health authorities) who share your concern and can help promote the proposal. Second, putting together a series of planning sessions to develop a shared vision and develop strategy. Third, planning the clinic and finding resources to operate it. Fourth, figuring out how to evaluate and to sustain the health clinic. CTB chapters found under Learn a Skill can help you decide how to proceed. Another resource I encourage you to explore is our Database of Best Practices under the Help Taking Action graphic. Several of those sources may provide relevant information.
I think that the best way to engage students is to start with them: Invite many students of all genders, ethnicities, and cultural backgrounds to talk together about their health concerns (and/or those of their friends), the resources they already turn to for health information and services, and the gaps that a school-based health clinic might fill for them. That can be the start of a health club, which then should play an active role in the rest of the process. Ask the students to help prepare a needs statement and identify that can be presented to their communities and to authorities, as a way to get started on the development process.
I have checked several relevant competencies for getting started, but many of the others will apply as you proceed. Feel free to ask follow-up questions if we can be of further assistance, and best wishes for success. Healthy students are a very important community resource.

Question Date: Jue, 07/09/2015
Question:
My name is Eric Benjamin. I am conducting this interview to evaluate how your organization uses strategic planning to address public health issues. The purpose of this interview is to enable me better understand how the art and science of planning should be embedded in the culture of public health practice in relation to addressing my final project public health problem. Please I will appreciate if the response to the following questions or better still the get an email or phone contact of a public health administrator to call and discuss the same questions.
1.How do you conduct a strategic planning process?
2.Who are the key individuals involved in the process?
3.Describe how decision making and resource allocation are important to managing your strategic planning process.
4. What you do you think are best practices for strategic planning?
5.Do you have any suggestions and advice for someone new to the strategic planning process?
Thank you in anticipation.
Answer:

Hi Eric, and thanks for contacting CTB.
Let me refer you to Chapter 8 in our Table of Contents under our Learn A Skill graphic. That and a related Toolkit also listed there will answer the questions you have raised. Feel free to peruse other chapters and to look at our Database of Best Practices for further information and examples.

Question Date: Jue, 07/16/2015
Question:
what are some familiar questions asked during the evaluation of a public health program employees.
Answer:

Hi Mark, and thanks for contacting CTB.
Take a look at our Chapter 15, section 2, which addresses the entire process of supervision.  The answer to your question will depend upon where in the entire supervision process the need for question occurs and the specific circumstances.  A few examples are provided within Section 2.  If you enter "supervision" in the search box (upper right hand corner)  you will find other resources both within and linked to CTB.  Those may be helpful.
In general, it is important to have created an environment of open communication throughout your program, to encourage questions from the supervisee and to provide helpful answers.  If you can communicate that mistakes are learning opportunities for both the supervisee and the organization, you are more likely to hear about mistakes and suggestions about how to improve the work tasks.  It is helpful to give accurate feedback, to clarify tasks and responsibilities, and to intervene early when you see things that need correction.
If your organization is large enough to have a Human Resources person, it is helpful to talk with that person about how to view mistakes and how the organization wants the supervision process to be conducted.
Supervision is a very important part of organizational success.  You might also want to take available workshops on supervision, in order to strengthen your own skills.

Question Date: Lun, 07/20/2015
Question:
A public hearing is being held by a developer regarding an apartment complex to be built right next to me and I want to attend to oppose their plans. What can I do? They've given only one week notice.
Answer:

Hi Melissa,
First, make a list of negative impacts, and also of benefits, that the proposed project will have on the neighborhood.  Is the proposed building compatible with neighborhood architecture?  Will it generate unmanageable traffic? Will it impact children and/or elderly neighborhhood residents? etc.
Second, contact as many neighbors as time permits and ask them to list their concerns and also to sign a petition opposing the development.  Ask them to attend the public hearing and speak their minds.  Make certain they know the date time and place of the hearing.  If many cannot attend because of work schedules or family responsibilities, their signatures on the petition will be extra important.
Third, contact the public entity holding the public hearing and ask what concerns that entity has about the proposed project.  Ask how the hearing process will work and how to sign up to speak.  Ask if child care will be available.
Fourth, find out whatever you can about the developer, his/her past projects, and their impacts on their neighbors.  Your city planning department may give you leads, and also ask the department to explain "mitigation" requirements to you - if any apply.
Fifth, contact your local elected officials and tell them your concerns.  Ask them to help.
Finally, go to the hearing and speak.  Focus on whatever facts and impacts you and neighbors have identified.  Be direct but respectful of the hearing process.  If there are impacts that need to be mitigated, identify them clearly and ask that the developer's plans include commitments to implement those mitigations, before final approval.
You may find some helpful information in Chapter 4 (Community Assessment) of our Table of Contents (Under the Learn a Skill graphic), particularly section 3 on generating public support and section 5 on making presentations.
Frankly, you are between a rock and a hard place.  Developers often give little notice, in order to minimize expressions of opposition.  I hope the above suggestions are helpful and that you have success.
 

Question Date: Lun, 07/20/2015
Question:
Dear Team,
I recently established a Non-profit organization and I am trying to learn writing a proposal. Recently, I was asked to submit a Grant Proposal and I have been working on it until I stumble to your website.
My organization is called Life Wells Foundation. Its objective is to improve the lives of all Ethiopians by bringing safe, clean water sources to remote villages.
My Question to you is, would you help me review my proposal? Will anyone in your group willing to volunteer to help me write a proposal?
Answer:

Hi Yaregal, and thanks for your compliment.  Unfortunately, we doo not offer a direct mentoring service that might help you review your proposal.
Since you hope to bring clean water to your countrymen, you might want to contact NGOs that operate in Ethiopia and that may have the same goal.  In addition, Rotary International supports clean water programs.  Contact a local Rotary club in your (or a nearby) city for advice and possible assistance.
Take a look at our chapters 4 and 5 for possible strategies to promote your goal.  Also, please enter "water" in our search box at the top of the page.  That will give you some leads to similar projects that have linked with CTB.
Best wishes.  Clean water is fundamental to improving public health, and we hope for your success.

Question Date: Lun, 07/20/2015
Question:
hi, my name is remofiloe from mafikeng. i am trying to start a youth organization that is more christian and involved in the community. my concern is that where we live we don't really have a place to meet and the young people in our community don't show interest in what we are trying to do. it is so bad that i even think of quitting. what can i do to make them join this because the way i see it , it's like they don't like me. i really need help!!!
Answer:

Hi Remofiloe, and thanks for contacting CTB.
My first piece of advice is to try not to take the youths' current disinterest personally.  Some may just be indifferent; some may feel you are proselytizing; some just have other interests.  It's not really about you personally, but for whatever reason they are not ready to work on your idea at this time.  Realize also that you must come to understand what the young people want.  It is not possible to make them join.
I also suggest that you reconsider your time-frame.  Perhaps the process of developing this project will need more time to find allies and to interest some of the youth.  Building coalitions takes time and a lot of energy.
Do look for others (both youth and adults) who are interested in what you are trying to accomplish, because these projects are very difficult for one person to accomplish alone.  Patiently build interest and momentum.  Work with your allies to develop a concept and strategic plan, so people will have a more clear understanding of what all you and they hope to accomplish.
Talk with youth to find out what services and activities they feel a community facility should provide them.  Build interest by involving them to accomplish smaller projects that they do want.  Once started, the services and activities can be expanded as the youth are ready and interested.
The early stages of any project can be very frustrating to the organizer, so you are by no means alone in your reaction.  The challenge of building a community interest and partnership takes time, but the long-term satisfactions make it worthwhile.  We wish you well and hope that, in partnership with your community, you will have success.  I have marked some competencies that are relevant to early community organization efforts.  Please review those chapters, and please do feel free to ask other questions as your effort proceeds.
 

Question Date: Mar, 07/21/2015
Question:
Hello! I'm wondering if you know who in Seattle might be doing similar work as what you've done with the Toolbox, or organizations working on what the Toolbox covers in a more coherent fashion (rather than individual orgs handling just pieces of the whole picture). I'd like to get involved, or volunteer. Thanks!
Answer:

Hi Kyle,
Thanks for your interest in volunteering with CTB.  The route to volunteer is through the "About" graphic at the top of our page.  Click on "Contact us" to reach the people who manage CTB.
 

Question Date: Mar, 07/21/2015
Question: How to compose a letter in epic format
Answer:

Hi Lula, and thanks for contacting CTB.
I have no idea how to compose a letter in epic format, so I Googled the phrase "letter in epic format" and found a number of resources that might assist you.  Please give that a try.  I hope it is what you are looking for.

Question Date: Mié, 07/22/2015
Question:
How to resolve the complaint made by the clients and volunteers over the newspaper article released about the community event?
Answer:

Good morning Le, and thanks for contacting CTB. Part of my answer depends upon whether people are complaining about the content of the article or about the process used in developing the article. In either case, it is important to acknowledge the complaint and take a "learning" approach to resolving it. The article itself cannot be changed (although a correction could be requested if the article contained major errors). The thing that can be changed is how articles are generated or solicited in the future. So, after acknowledging the complaint and the emotions generated, ask the group to help you develop solutions. Ask for brainstorming suggestions by critics and by those who support the article content. Talk about all suggestions and ask the group to vote on how articles should be generated in the future. If conflict is intense, bringing in a third-party facilitator ma be the best way to proceed. Please take a look at Chapter 20 in our Table of Contents (Under the Learn A Skill graphic). Section 6 in that chapter will give you more information. Also, You can enter "conflict resolution" in the search box (upper right hand corner) and find additional information. Conflict is a part of most processes - whether acknowledged or kept silent. We hope the conflict within this situation can lead to stronger and more unified solutions for the future.

Question Date: Vie, 07/24/2015
Question:
what is the meaning of the concept: "communication tool"? how can communication be a tool for any field of endeavour?
Answer:

Good morning Terence, and thanks for contacting CTB.
A very basic definition of a tool is that a tool is used to help accomplish something.  In that sense, communication that helps contribute to solutions is a tool.  Consider it a metaphor;  it is not a hammer, but it can help drive a solution.  It helps people identify their different understandings, share relevant knowledge, and find ways to reach consensus about solutions.

Question Date: Lun, 07/27/2015
Question:
please how do i make reference to your work on:Developing a Plan for Communication in my research.
Answer:

Hello again Terence,
On the lower right hand corner of our page, in the blue section, you will find a link to "Use Policy".  Click on that link and it will provide the information you need.

Question Date: Lun, 07/27/2015
Question:
I am looking to start a youth program and rec center in a rural community that can be a benefit to four other towns. The need for a building will be required. How do I set it up. As a non-profit or as a business? not sure how to approach the undertaking of this project.
Answer:

Hi Ruth.  Thanks for asking, but I need to recommend that you put this question to an attorney and/or accountant.  They can advise you on the legal and administrative issues involved in your jurisdiction, and we cannot.
Sounds like a good and useful project, and we wish you success.

Question Date: Lun, 07/27/2015
Question:
Is there anything in your tool box concerning States changing to understand that it is everyone that is in essence responsible when a felon gets re-incarcerated? Do you have anything in your toolbox that explains how communities can support felons more to stay out of prison? The reason I ask is there isn't much of that kind of support going on. That is a change that needs to happen. Help with getting a job, a place to live and support to keep straight. You have in your tool box information on how to form coalitions, well maybe communities can form coalitions where business and housing personnel can work with prisons to help with making a much smoother transition for the felons.
Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Answer:

Hi Edward, and thanks for contacting CTB.
CTB provides information on the many competencies involved in community and project development but does not get down to specific social issues.  However, you might try the US Department of Justice, Bureau of Prisons website.  They have a section on Resources for Ex-offenders that may give you some resource leads.  You mentioned our Coalition Building information, and that is probably relevant to the effort you want to undertake.  To paraphrase a metaphor:  "It takes a village to welcome back a convicted person."  We think you effort is valuable and wish you success.

Question Date: Mié, 07/29/2015
Question:
limerick, pa the township is putting a sidewalk in front of our old 1920's? Farmhouse to connect the sidewzlks around 1/2 of the block. 40 yrs our house has been ours bfor his dads. we do animal rescue as well as agricultural farming here. weve made our entire property, environmentally friendly since other farms sold to builders. across st is two large developmnts, now both have sidewalks, nxt dr our left, an elementary school. Few trs ago, redid school added high cubs, cut dwn four huge old trees, n built sidewalk up to our driveway. to my bk yard is a golf course a thin wooded area completely surrounds us and our house is 3 story, nobody can see our home or we are here unless they come in our driveway. At the driveway you will see three beautiful waterfalls, two ponds with fish, cranes, cats, all color birds, and a orchard. 1 3/4 acre lot. We built for wildlife sustainability. OUR TWNSHIP WAS A FARMING TWN! NOW ONLY FEW REMAIN. Now twnship is taking our property for a sidewalk which is not. Necessary. they are re doing a intersection and say putting in sidewalks. I feel it is not nessasary to improve overall because two homes at new intersection are not getting sidewalks so,WHY JUMP TO 2/4 BLOCK DWN STREET TO PUT ONE IN THATS ONLY ONE BLOCK SPACE WHEN PEOPLE CAN GET TO FROM SCHOOL KINDERGARDEN! 1-3 RD GRADE EASILY SAFELY NOW????

is there an environmental group available in our area that can help us stop this.?..?

Otherwise we are doomed and no more singing birds in morning, no more safe haven for wildlife as exists now. Next summer peco. N twnship will begin KILLING OUR PRIVACY N HOMES TO WILDLIFE.:-) squirels, birds, small animals, and kill trees n shrubs deeper in our yard due to ripping long root systens.

ANYBODY PLEASE PASS THIS ON WE NEED HELP. NOW!!!!!

Gayle. Cell ( no pranks) 610-960-4297
Answer:

Hi Gayle, and thanks for contacting CTB.
We can't help you locate specific organizations, but we suggest that you Google "Environmental Organizations Limerick, PA".  That search did generate a list of environmental groups in your general area.

Question Date: Jue, 07/30/2015
Question:
Recently I've been hired as the Health Educator for the non-profit organization where I work. Part of my responsibility is to run a high school student organization which focuses on health issues in our community. My vision is that by the 12th grade they would trained as high school peer educators. Most of research has led my to universities that have this type of program, are there any resources that could help me develop my program?
Answer:

Hi Cassie, and thanks for contacting CTB,
You might take a look at our Chapter 24, Section 8 in the Table of Contents (under the Learn A Skill graphic).  That section focuses on Peer Education and may be of help to you.  You might also scroll through our Database of Best Practices (under the Help Taking Action graphic) to see if similar programs are listed.  One interesting resource that you can find on the web is the Right Question Institute.  It has a process for training healthcare consumers to think through what health information they really want to obtain from healthcare providers, to formulate and then to ask questions.  They focus on both health care and education.  Their information might be relevant to your interests.

Question Date: Mar, 08/04/2015
Question:
i want vision statement for a plastic injection molding & manufacturing industry. can you please help me. i need it by 11.08.2015
Answer:

Hi Aparna, and thanks for contacting CTB,
We do offer a Toolkit to assist you in formulating mission and vision statements.  Please look at our Table of Contents (under the Learn a Skill graphic) and find Toolkit 5.  That should be of assistance as you think through your own Mission and Vision statement.  We don't have any examples of M&V statements for manufacturing industries, but you might want to do a web search for similar manufacturers and see what they have posted to describe their mission and vision.

Question Date: Vie, 08/07/2015
Question:
Can 1 advocacy group stand for rights of two groups on opposite side of the fence, in case where the problem is as a result of each party over states its right over that of the other which does the same as well?
Answer:

Hi Lesetja and thanks for contacting CTB.
I guess the answer is, "It depends."
I think the 1 advocacy group has several possible choices.  (1) It can ignore the other two groups and advocate its own position.  (2) It can seek to mediate between the other two groups and try to either resolve their differences or identify the points of actual agreement that they do share despite other differences. (3) It can point out the exaggerated elements in the positions of the other two groups and advocate for the middle ground.
Our materials do include information on resolving conflicts and dealing with opposition.  But they mostly focus on conflicts within one group, rather than between two other groups.  Click on our "Help Taking Action" graphic and then on the "Troubleshooting Guide" to find those materials in a section entitled "We are facing opposition or conflict.".
I hope this is helpful in the specific circumstances you face.

Question Date: Dom, 08/09/2015
Question:
Dear all,greetings.I am Saradha from Tamilnadu,S.India. Working at teacher education institution.Effectiveness of cooperative learning in Psychology(Learning and Theories of learning-concept)for STUDENT TEACHERS.-This is my Ph.D-topic
How can i frame the effective design for topic.or suggest few advise. thank u for considering .
Answer:

Hi Saradha, and thanks for contacting CTB.
Let me refer you to Chapters 36 - 39 in our Table of Contents (Under the Learn A Skill graphic) and also to the Toolbox 12 listed there.  I think those may be helpful to you.  Also, you might check the database of Best Practices for similar evaluation projects that have linked to CTB.
Best wishes for your success in formulating and carrying out your Thesis project - a very big step!

Question Date: Mar, 08/11/2015
Question:
As part of my internship, I have been assigned the task of creating a stress management program for a corporate health management company. I am looking for some direction of where to find credible, update to resources regarding stress management, as well as ideas for how to implement such a program as a supplement to client's wellness programs. All correspondence with clients takes place either telephonically or via the internet so I am looking to make a program that can be flexible in how it is delivered in order best meet the needs of the clients. Any advice, direction, or insight on where to start is greatly appreciated!
Answer:

Hi Erica.  Thanks for contacting CTB.  We don't have information about specific types of programs within our Table of Contents, so I suggest that you look through our Database of Best Practices (found under the Help Taking Action graphic) for a variety of health-focused programs currently in operation around the country.  Perhaps our Model for Getting started (also under Help Taking Action) can be of assistance as you think about how you want to proceed.  Please feel free to ask later questions as your project develops, and best wishes for completing a successful assignment.

Question Date: Mar, 08/11/2015
Question:
GOOD DAY SIR.HOW CAN I AS A MARKETER ELLABORATE A GOOD MESSAGE TO CONQUER AND KEEP MY CUSTOMERS?
Answer:

Good day to you, Nkembo.  Thanks for contacting CTB.
The most effective messages respond directly to customer needs and resources - to create new or strengthen existing solutions that they can apply to their own situations.  So ,I recommend that you consider surveying (either formally or through focus groups, or informal conversations with) a reasonable sample of your customers.  Ask general questions about what they do prefer, or do need, or do want you to add to your inventory; and listen patiently to their answers.  Try to avoid asking questions that elicit "Yes or No" answers.  
Take a look at several chapters within our Table of Contents (under the Learn a Skill graphic).  I have checked below several competencies that may help you develop your information-gathering process.

Question Date: Mié, 08/12/2015
Question:
What steps do i need to follow to constitute my playgroup? i don't want to be a registered charity or company.
Answer:

Good morning Hadijah,
Since you do not want to be a registered charity or company, you probably just need to go ahead and recruit playgroup participants, who can decide as a group where and how they want the playgroup to function.  Probably you should check with local authorities to determine whether the playgroup needs any special permits.  If money (e.g. fees or donations) will be involved you will need accounting advice, a good bookkeeping system, and a determination of whether you will have to pay any taxes on funds collected.
Enjoy!

Question Date: Vie, 08/14/2015
Question:
How can I write a proposal to appoint youth based community based organizations to facilitate weekly sessions on keys areas of youth skills development at the career development, business support, computer literacy, leadership, life skills and Moral Regeneration Implementation, coordination and facilitation of the Youth Employment?
Answer:

Good morning Chichi, and thanks for contacting CTB.
My first suggestion is that you sharpen the focus of your early efforts.  You list a wide range of topics, and they may not all be first priority among the youth you hope to serve.  Our chapters on needs assessment, partnerships, and action planning may be of some assistance.  They can be found under the Learn A Skill graphic by clicking on Table of Contents.  As part of your needs assessment, consider whether other groups/organizations already offer some of these topics.  Is it possible to collaborate with them, in order to strengthen the offerings?
As you proceed to think this project through, an outline for a grant application will begin to emerge.  We have a chapter on grant writing that may be of assistance.
Efforts to strengthen the skills of youth have great merit.  Best wishes for your success.
 

Question Date: Dom, 08/16/2015
Question:
I am a First-Year in the School of Business. When applying last fall I listed that my intended major as Business Marketing. I would like to change that to finance. I am also interested in a second degree in German. What do I need to do to make that happen?

My aim is to complete school in four years. I am currently enrolled in a course called First Year Business Experience. It was my understanding while enrolling that it was necessary that I take this course. Is this true? If not, is there another course that would put me on a faster track to get my degree?

Thank you very much
Answer:

Hi Noah,
I need to redirect you to your academic advisor, as the Community Tool Box advises people involved in community development and improvement.

Question Date: Mar, 08/18/2015
Question: i need an idea for creating an organisation called Think Big Africa
Answer:

Hi Kelvin, and thanks for contacting CTB.
It appears to me that you already have an idea, and you need to think through a development process.  I invite you to use any of our information resources as you go about planning how you want to develop it.  Think Big Africa sounds like a very big idea, so many of the listed competencies will apply at different times as you work on it.'
Start with decisions about whether you will need partners to collaborate with as you get organized,  Consider how to assess the needs and the resources of the communities you want to serve.  Then proceed through the development process, taking the time and effort that will be needed.  Be patient but persistent.  Identify some "smaller" projects that can be done as you develop the larger concept; build on the successes of those smaller projects.
I wish you success as you start down an important and challenging road.
 

Question Date: Vie, 08/21/2015
Question: What is action plan
Answer:

Hi Olwethu.  Thank you  for contacting Community Toolbox.
In its most simple form, an action plan is a list of actions that will be taken to accomplish a goal or result.  
Usually, the action plan also includes target dates, identifies the person responsible to complete each action, and identifies a measurable or observable result for each action.. Although action plans can be put together simply for a very specific action, most action plans for community development projects require a good deal of preliminary study of needs and available resources, in order to arrive at a clear vision and mission.
We have both a Chapter and a Toolkit that will give you helpful information about action planning.  Please click on our Table of Contents graphic at the top of our home page, and then on Chapter 8.  within that chapter you will find a section on Action Plans.  Also, notice the Toolkit #5, which can help guide your planning process..

Question Date: Jue, 08/27/2015
Question:
i am a young graduate of chemical engineering. i am currently serving in a community that has a very low literacy level. i intend to begin an adult literacy program. i have not received any level of training on adult education, but i really want to make the difference in the lives of the people over here and am willing to give all it takes. please, how do i go about this, step by step? thanks
Answer:

Good morning Ezeh, and thanks for contacting CTB,
"Step by step" depends a lot on where you are located and the educational resources with whom you might consult for guidance in that culture.  
Rather than my trying to guess from here what steps to take, I suggest you make contact with educators (and maybe NGOs) in your area.  Essentially, you start by locating mentors and reading materials. Ask educators to advise you about teaching methods that work well with adult learners, and librarians about appropriate reading materials.  The reading materials will need to be simple at the start, and gradually more difficult as learning progresses.  
Talk with teachers in local schools who might offer guidance.  Consider establishing an email connection with the education faculty of a university in your area.  As you go, be on the lookout for others who can carry on the program if/when you have to move on; and for sources of funding to buy reading materials.  It is a good idea to think from the beginning about sustaining your project.
I hope this response is helpful.  I very much appreciate your willingness to take on your project.  Adult literacy is an important facet of education, and resources will become available to you.  Thank you.
 

Question Date: Lun, 08/31/2015
Question:
we have to set a process to access chairmans office like about access to him and his work place his travel i am his PA please help ASAP would be much appreciated
Answer:

Good Afternoon Neha,
I often recommend that people start their planning process by identifying key partners and customers.  In this situation, your CEO is your customer.  Also your partner in planning:
     how he/she wants to be accessed, and by whom,
     what requests for access to your CEO should be referred to others first,   
     identifying the kinds of issues most important to keep him/her informed about,  and
     pending travel plans and preferred travel arrangements.
Ask your CEO for meeting time to discuss these (and any other important) issues and how they should be handled.  
Based upon what you hear, come back to your CEO with a preliminary outline.  Get confirmation or identify changes that will meet the CEOs needs.
Put the plan into operation as a "pilot study" for a month, and then request another meeting to identify and make any further changes needed.
I suggest that the plan include both what you communicate to your CEO, and also how your CEO can most efficiently keep you informed of his/her needs.
Sounds like you have an interesting and exciting new job situation.  Be confident in your own skills.  Best wishes from CTB!

Question Date: Mar, 09/01/2015
Question:
Hello,

I'm working on a few projects for the Marygrove block club and would like to know if you have any information that would be helpful in making our organization stronger.

Currently, I'm working on updating our website and creating a newsletter to reach out to more residence that live within our community. Any ideas and/or suggestions is greatly appreciate.

Thank you,

Yolanda Harris
734-883-8454
Answer:

Dear Yolanda,
Thank you for your question. I would suggest asking members about what they would like to get out of the book club, then based on the responses, the membership can develop shared goals and expectations of members. Depending on the nature of the projects, you might consider soliciting feedback from book club members frequently and checking in with your team members to ensure that your organizational goals are met as well. 
Take a look at Ch. 8 and 9 of the toolbox. 

Question Date: Mié, 09/02/2015
Question:
Hello,
Is there any other model beside assess, plan, act, evaluate and sustain found in the Community Tool Box for promoting community health?
Thank you,
Maria
Question Date: Jue, 09/03/2015
Question:

Please ,i would like to find out how i can reference your article on leadership styles.
Answer:

Dear Omotoso,
Do you mean articles posted on the Community Toollbox website? Please clarify.

Question Date: Mar, 09/08/2015
Question:
Good Evening. I am in the process of forming a non profit to help families become more aware of the local resources. The families would go on our website and complete the needs assessment and then we would then link the up with that resource. My question. what would are strategic plan be to make sure that this service is effective. We have about 5 board members. what should are turn around be when the individual contacts us. i just needs some guidance. there is a service that is available for the community but the hold time is extremely long and the information is not always accurate. We dont want to duplicate those type of services or complaints. Please advise
Answer:

Dear Kim,
Thank you for your question. 
I would strongly recommend the Toolbox's Chapters on Developing Strategic Plan and Organizationa Structure and Implmenting Promisming Community Interventions.
What are the responsibilities and expectations for the board members? Are they responsible to provide responses to individuals? The appropriate turn around time mostly depends on the resources you have (e.g., staff) and the expected answer (e.g., providing contact information vs. advising and adovcating for the client). It seems like you have already identified the needs in the community (accurate information delivered quickly to clients). The next step is probably to realistically assess the capacity of your organization and decide what is feasible. Also, I would suggest thinking about evaluation efforts. What are the expected outcomes? How would you know if your organization has achieved those outcomes? You might want to consider developing bench marks (e.g., delivering information within a week). 
 
 

Question Date: Mar, 09/08/2015
Question:
I am a pastor in Emporia, Kansas, working with the university and the ministerial alliance to develop anti-racism training. We are aware of resources from outside the area, but came across the Community Tool Box and are wondering what resources might be available from KU to foster community conversations.
Answer:

Dear Rev. Daniel-Brey,
As I am not from the area, I can't provide you with specific information. However, I would suggest contacting the staff/developer of the Community Toolbox directly.
 http://ctb.ku.edu/en/who-we-are

Question Date: Mié, 09/09/2015
Question:
I am representing a non - profit summer recreational club that has been in existence for ore than 65 years. The club consists of an aging membership, that through the years has lost an ever increasing number of members. Our difficulties are compounded by the fact that there is a competing organization that offers a lake and beach experience, whereas our recreational facility offers a heated pool experience. Our membership fees are $325 per member, as compared to $150 for lake and boating experiences. Our organization needs to increase membership, or in the near future, cease to exist. What strategies should we be examining to reverse our position?
Answer:

Dear Stanley,
I would suggest doing a thorough assessment of the strenghts and weaknesses of your organization. I would suggest not pay so much attention at the membership fee. Instead, think about what exactly does your club offer that is unique and valuable ot the community members? What programs are needed or not needed? What are the needs of the community? Have you done a needs assessment of the community? Perhaps what your club offers no longer match the needs of the community. The second thing I would recommend is to think about whether collaobration with other organizations (even competing ones) is possible. 
I would recommend reading Ch. 42-46 of the Community Toolbox. It may give you some ideas about beyond surviving this crisis and think about the sustainability of your club.

Question Date: Vie, 09/11/2015
Question:
how can i make my petition legal in kern county ca do i file with what office?
its for a free local community skatepark for at risk
Answer:

Dear Teresa,
I am not familiar with the legal process in CA.

Question Date: Dom, 09/13/2015
Question:
Dear Advisor,
I really appreciate for your hard working for world communities as well as individual or institutions. However, I don't have any questions yet, I just want to request for other LEARNING SKILLS, COACHING SKILLS. I am looking forward for this learning skill. Lastly, I really want to say GREAT Thanks for your contributions.

Faithfully your,

Sophanna
Answer:

Dear Sophana,
I am not sure what type of skills you are exactly requesting. Ch.13-16 of the Toolbox includes some ideas about leadership skills. 

Question Date: Lun, 09/14/2015
Question:
I want to further my education in Community health and development, how do I get scholarship and information? I am an Mphil Student from the University For Development Studies, Ghana.
Answer:

Dear Jaliu,
The best way to gather information regarding scholarship is to contact the program of interest directly. The Society for Community Action and Research has a list of community psychology progras and related fields. www.scra27.org

Question Date: Mié, 09/16/2015
Question:
I live and work in England as an advisor on alcoholism and drug misuse and I'm trying to set up a drop-in centre and I looking for advice for people who work in the same field as I myself.
Answer:

Dear Robin,
Please check out the work of Dr. Leonard Jason at DePaul University. 
 http://condor.depaul.edu/ljason/

Question Date: Jue, 09/17/2015
Question:
Good day. Sir/Madam

My name is Yongama Mabhengu. a Young Mediator, As well as Youth Chairperson of a small Political party Called African Independent Congress in South Africa. And now I realy need to Develop my Youth but then I realy have no Idea. Please help me

Thank you. Hope to hear from you soon

Yongama Mabhengu
0766572151
Answer:

Dear Yongama,
Please check out the field of Positive Youth Development. 
The work of Dr. Gaberial Kuperminc and Dr. Richard Lerner. My research also examines positive youth development among adolescents and adults from diverse backgrounds. 
http://psychology.gsu.edu/profile/gabriel-kuperminc/
 
http://ase.tufts.edu/iaryd/aboutPeopleLernerR.htm
 
www.youthengaged4solutions.com

Question Date: Jue, 09/17/2015
Question:
Where can I find in the Community Tool Box the information on the 7 Kansas Workgroup codes used to standardize program evaluations (e.g., PP = Program Planning, CA = Community Actions, CC = Community Changes, etc.?
Answer:

Dear Dr. Johnson,
The best solution I can offer is to search through the chapters. 

Question Date: Jue, 09/17/2015
Question:
I was wondering when the workshop was tomorrow (Tuesday) to help make the pad that you all will take over to the women in need?
Answer:

Dear kathleen,
I don't have information regarding any workshops.

Question Date: Lun, 09/21/2015
Question:
need help planning a breakfast for the entire k.c
police and fire dept
Answer:

We don't have information about catering. 

Question Date: Mar, 09/22/2015
Question:
Hi,
I am an ASU student in Phoenix area, working on my Doctorate of Nurse Practitioner (DNP) and I am wanting to do a project that will help people change their Lifestyle. With an increase in diseases that are lifestyle related, such as obesity, heart disease and diabetes, it would be fantastic for providers in primary care to have community program to help with this increasingly worrisome problem. If providers could send their patients for education and support, progress could be made in the community toward reducing the diseases caused by poor lifestyle habits. I would like to do something with diet as there is evidence to support eating 80 % whole plant based foods, but it is difficult to do. However with the right education and support it can be done. I am wondering if there are others in the Phoenix area interested in working on an initiative to help people with lifestyle changes. I may be asking the wrong person, but I thought it could be a start and / or you could direct me in the right direction.
Thanks!
Answer:

Dear Brenda,
I would suggest checking out the Prevention Research Center at ASU. 
https://psychology.clas.asu.edu/lab/prevention-research-center-prc

Question Date: Lun, 09/28/2015
Question:
Thank you for all this useful tips you have here. I just opened an organization for my local community and am also thinking if I should operate at the state level or national level. My aim is to improve the live of our youth educational and also provide training for them to face the real world.
Answer:

Dear Evans,
I think the scope and reach of your organization would depend on multiple factors. First, what is the level of resources available? Second, who are your partners? Third, who the youth you would like to reach? I think it might be a good idea to start some conversations with community members/partners to gain a better understanding of the needs and resources that can help your organization to succeed. 

Question Date: Lun, 09/28/2015
Question:
I understand you’re adapting this Community Tool Box(CTB) to the Portuguese language, as well.
When do you think this Portuguese version would be available?
(I sent to the Work Group for Community Health and Development a more detailed email, but it went to your spam)
Answer:

Dear Maunela,
I am not sure. The best advice I have is to keep checking the website.

Question Date: Mié, 09/30/2015
Question:
I am a doctoral student at the University of Cincinnati currently enrolled in a Qualitative Research course and an Action Research course. I'm working on an assignment to locate resources about obtaining appropriate samples for qualitative research related to health and education. What are the best resources for best practices related to sampling?
Answer:

Dear Dee, 
I would suggest readings from Patton and Creswell. The most appropriate sampling method will depend on the type of qualitative analysis you plan to do and the research question.  

Question Date: Mié, 09/30/2015

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