Resilient Hearts seeks to evaluate its governance structure to determine the most effective operational model (for-profit, non-profit, social enterprise, or not-for-profit) that aligns with its mission and enhances service delivery. This project will guide us in optimizing our organizational framework to better support individuals with developmental disabilities.

Project Steps: Students will undertake the following steps:

Identify Objectives:

• Assess the current mission, vision, and goals of Resilient Hearts.
• Identify the needs of the community and stakeholders.

Conduct a Needs Assessment:

• Gather data on existing services, funding sources, and governance structures.
• Analyze the advantages and disadvantages of each governance model in relation to our objectives.

Recommend Governance Model:

• Based on the assessment, recommend the most suitable governance structure.
• Consider potential funding opportunities and community impact.

Create a Communication Strategy:

• Develop a plan to communicate the recommended governance structure to staff, stakeholders, and participants.
• Design materials that effectively explain the benefits and implications of the new structure.

Develop an Evaluation Process:

• Create a periodic evaluation framework to assess the effectiveness of the chosen governance structure and its impact on service delivery.

Bonus Steps:

• Assist in implementing the communication strategy and provide feedback on its effectiveness.

Tasks for Students: By the end of the project, students should demonstrate:

• Clear identification of organizational objectives and community needs.
• Well-researched recommendations for a governance model.
• A comprehensive communication strategy for stakeholders.
• A structured evaluation process for ongoing assessment.

Final Deliverables:

• A detailed final report outlining findings, recommendations, and strategies.
• A presentation summarizing the project’s outcomes and proposed governance model.

Support for Students: Students will receive direct mentorship from Resilient Hearts throughout the project. We will provide:

• Access to information about our current governance and operational structure.
• Insights into governance models used by similar organizations.
• Continuous feedback on project progress and challenges encountered.