 | |
Orchestra Outreach | | |
 Clear Mission
Guiding Questions: What are we trying to accomplish? What group are we intending
to serve? What do we want them to
take away from the experience? How will we know if we did it?
McPhee and Korn both emphasized having a set of goals to center the program. Without a convergent understanding of
where resources should be used, the organization can easily have too many people heading in different
directions. An
effective outreach program requires many participants: musicians, management, funders, partners, and
different groups
from the community. Each section has a different perspective based on their background and interests. With a clear set of
goals, it becomes possible for the many points of view to come together more efficiently and use their
differences as
strengths.
On a smaller scale, if each program has stated goals, the participants will
have foundations for their expectations.
Furthermore, it is possible to enlist the active engagement of students if they feel that they have
a hand in helping the group
meet their expectations. It shows respect for individuals and provides avenues over time for intrinsic
motivation and social
learning.
Mission is also essential to the evaluation and assessment of programs. Later
in the process it is necessary to reflect on
how closely the actions and effects of a program have followed its goals. The leaders of each
endeavor should be mindful of
not just the early efforts, but also the long-term evaluation of those actions when they establish their
mission. Assessment is
helpful for communication with funders, but is also an area for potential growth within the organization
and/or
partnership.
| 
