AFL Prevention Programs: Lessons Learned

Lessons on Sustainability

Build key relationships in the community and with schools

• Build personal relationships with schools and multiple staff at the schools. Programs should demonstrate a genuine interest in the school, staff, and students and become a valued part of that community.
• Offer trainings to teachers and others related to the program. They can help lead the intervention even if your funding source ends.
• Develop a clear and solid plan for transitioning from one funding source or program to the next. Ensure that partners understand your situation up front.
• Reach out to multiple agencies in the community to work with. Find organizations that have “staying power” and have been around for awhile (universities).
• Embrace and build upon existing programs. Once one funding source ends, programs have a better chance of maintaining if working directly with other organizations and are filling a need.

Diversify funds

• Work with funding sources at all levels (school, local, counties, state, national).
• Be flexible to meet the needs of the funding source.
• Engage other local organizations in your work to help create long lasting partnerships.

Market your program effectively

• Communicate your goals and objectives clearly to others. Effective and clear communication is crucial.
• Keep your program active and keep the interest high. Send out regular information to key parties about your program highlighting the great things you are doing.
• Create materials that are easily reproducible that others can use. This helps to create a supportive environment.
• Keep your program information up to date and ensure that it is included in local community resource guides.