Conduct a preliminary program assessment.

• Assess existing services, including volunteer, within the facility.
• Assess the facility’s population, noting inmates in need of literacy services who are also parents of young children.
• Poll educational and correctional staff to determine interest in family literacy project.
• Assess space availability for family literacy program and for storage of materials.
• Assess existing equipment (telephone, fax, computer, email, software, printer, etc.).

Develop a budget.

• Assess funding streams (see “Funding” section).
• Work with existing programs and build on their momentum.
• Gain financial support from facility and outside sources.

Address procedural details.

• Evaluate existing program schedule.
• Evaluate visitation schedule.
• Establish a timeline with the facility.
• Establish referral procedure.
• Establish criteria for program participation.
• Establish program calendar of events.
• Establish procedure for parent/child interaction (including permission to contact outside caregiver, transportation to and from the facility, alternative methods of interaction, release of information/pictures).
• Procure space.
• Develop necessary forms (see Appendix D).

Develop and implement a marketing plan.

• Meet with facility administrators/staff and program staff to develop a marketing plan.
• Review the “Marketing” section of this document. (See "Marketing").
• Create a fact sheet, brochure, flier, etc.