Top 10 Ways to Sustain a Program

There were many terrific sessions at this year's GAINS conference, but a particular one stands out - Top 10 Ways to Sustain Programming. The topic caught my eye since the Health Foundation is especially interested in the sustainability of the programs we help start. So, I got up early - this was a sunrise session - and attended this session on sustaining programs.

I was not disappointed. The speaker was Stephen Bush from the Shelby County Public Defenders System (Memphis, TN), who talked about a jail diversion program he is involved with. He had composed a Top 10 list on how to sustain a program.

I like Top 10 lists and I thought his had lots of relevance to Foundation grantees and others who are trying to sustain new programs. Here is Stephen Bush's Top 10 list:

1. Build a brand - create a easily recognizable brand for your program.
2. Exploit any and all technical assistance that is available to make your program strong.
3. Tell your story; make a video - client stories are compelling.
4. Amplify your program via advocates (such as NAMI).
5. Look smart - get published, be seen, use the media.
6. Use data effectively to show that you make a difference in the lives of your clients.
7. Cultivate patrons in the community.
8. Find your local relevance - show that you make a difference in your community by the work you do.
9. Be a key to something bigger - show how the program connects to the larger community.
10. Throw a party to celebrate your successes.

Stephen Bush's program produced a video to tell their story. You can see it at http://community.livefrommemphis.com/_Voices-of-Jericho-Stories-of-Jail-Diversion/video/316209/14881.html

The Health Foundation's Capacity Building Programs series helps you achieve item #2 and many of the other items on the Top 10 list. You can see the entire catalog at www.healthfoundation.org/events/by_topic.html. Some workshops connected to the Top 10 list include:

• The Art of Cause Storytelling (Top 10 item #3)
• Public Relations (Top 10 items #7 and 8)
• Meet the Press (Top 10 item #5)
• Making Data Work for You (Top 10 item #6)

Stephen Bush's list is a good place to start for sustaining a program. What has worked for you in sustaining your programs? What would you add to the list?