If sustainability is unaddressed in a program, what should be the immediate action?

Addressing sustainability is crucial for the long-term success of afterschool programs, and the immediate action of writing focused business goals plays a vital role in this process. Establishing clear and specific business goals sets the foundation for understanding the program's mission and the resources required to achieve it.

When sustainability is overlooked, creating concentrated goals allows the program to outline its vision for future growth and development. These goals can include financial sustainability, resource management, and program impact, all of which guide strategies and actions needed to maintain and enhance the program over time.

By focusing on creating and refining business goals, the program can align its objectives with sustainable practices, which may include identifying funding sources, improving operational efficiencies, or developing partnerships. This structured approach ensures that sustainability becomes an integral component of the program's overall strategy, rather than an afterthought.

While staff training, community outreach, and marketing efforts play important roles in maintaining program quality, they should ideally stem from the clarity and direction provided by well-defined business goals. Thus, focusing on business goals is a proactive and strategic first step towards achieving sustainability in an afterschool program.