Implementation

Because of the variety in proven interventions, states and communities have leeway to find programs that suit local values, opportunities and budgets. The key is to select strategies that have documented effectiveness, assure that they are implemented well and recognize the critical importance of a strong commitment to continuous program improvement.

• Match expectations with sufficient resources .  Be clear about the goals, purpose and target audience for specific programs.  Provide sufficient resources to ensure fidelity to the evidence-based model, or modify expectations to accommodate variances.   

• Identify barriers.   Effective policy development requires the identification of factors that may impede effective implementation.

• Make provisions for broad-based input.  When involvement will increase the likelihood that the needs of children and families are being met by the policy, engage community stakeholders (ex-offenders, their families, community groups, service providers, and courts) in implementation.  

• Support local capacity and communication . Provide technical assistance, monitoring, and oversight to local programs and agencies.  Create opportunities for local-to-local communication, best practices sharing, and local input on state policy decisions.

• Support ongoing evaluation and continuous program improvement.  

The state of Michigan established an implementation work group to assist in the implementation of the Michigan Affordable Housing Community Five-Year Action Plan.  The goal of the plan is to provide a common vision and voice for affordable housing advocates, funders, practitioners and recipients.