Program Implementation

Tips to Implementation: In its 15-year history, LINC has discovered numerous best practices and overcome many challenges in delivering human services as a citizen-directed organization.

Keys to Success:

• Paramount to all its work is establishing close partnerships with local stakeholders. Partnering with community members who are caring, engaged, and motivated has led to program results that are more effective and sustainable.

• The key to successful job retention is case management that continues after job placement; achieving job retention requires closely supporting clients even after employment has occurred.

• LINC has benefited greatly from leadership that has allowed staff to be flexible and creative in designing training and implementing programs.

• Having staff who remain energized and passionate about their work.

Other Lessons Learned: For organizations that are considering establishing similar programs, LINC suggests implementing the following strategies: (1) work in partnership with local constituents to find out exactly how local challenges and strengths are affecting self-sufficiency efforts for low-income families; (2) community meetings need to involve key individuals with the power to enact immediate decisions; (3) do not be afraid to experiment, but be quick to change direction if strategies are not working; (4) approach clients with a strengths-based management perspective; clients respond best to positive reinforcement that recognizes their achievements and builds on current strengths.