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Master-level assignment
The attached strategic plan was submitted as the final assigned paper in my Master of Arts 400-level Strategic Planning and Execution course at the University of Phoenix. As such, it conforms to the guidelines of the American Psychriatic Association (APA) style book. I earned an "A" on the paper and for the course.
Target organization (the real need)
The primary reason for this strategic plan, however, is the need of the organization under the plan's microscope. As the plan explains, the organization has been troubled by loss of support, declining membership, and difficulties with volunteer recruiting. All can be reversed if a strategic plan (whether a revision of this plan or another developed by the organization) is applied to the problems and solutions.
The instructor reminded the class "a strategic plan is only as good as the development process and personnel. You need to engage a whole team to be successful." This plan was developed by an individual, albeit an knowledgeable one, but its real strength would be discovered and enhanced by establishment of a youth/adult study team from throughout the community. There are a number of roles in strategic planning which a single individual should not be asked to do all alone.
About Chrysalis
Chrysalis is a nondenominational spiritual renewal program to provide young men and women between the ages of 15 and 24 with spiritual lessons and means to grace, centered around growing closer to Jesus Christ.Puget Sound Chrysalis, a legally registered 501(c)3 corporation based in Western Washington, has developed growing pains and struggles to maintain its ministry, focus, and financial footing. Economic slowdowns have crimped the organization's ability to grow. A strategic plan, which it does not have, would help the organization concentrate on its core competencies and aims.
Background
Chrysalis is an international ecumenical adaptation for youth of the adult-focused Walk to Emmaus, managed by The Upper Room, a division of the General Board of Discipleship of the United Methodist Church. The Upper Room was granted exclusive use of the program and materials of the Catholic Cursillo de Cristanidad.Policies set forth by the Puget Sound Chrysalis board must conform to those stated in a Letter of Agreement between the board and The Upper Room.
Mission, vision, values
Puget Sound Chrysalis currently has no vision statement. For this plan, I propose: "Creating an environment where youth can learn the importance of a Christ-filled life."The mission statement is: "To develop, challenge, inspire, and equip Christian youth as leaders, through Christian action in their homes, churches, schools, communities, and the Chrysalis experience."Puget Sound Chrysalis values are: participation in church activities, service to God and community, and spiritual and moral behavior set forth in the New Testament.
Conclusion
Puget Sound Chrysalis needs to evaluate its program in strategic terms. There are external threats to growth but also opportunities. The organization has God-given strengths but is hampered by inherent program weaknesses and the region's economic slowdown.
References
Lucht, Gregory. (2004). MGT578 classroom feedback. Washington, DC/Phoenix, AZ: University of Phoenix
Pearce, J.A. & Robinson, R.B. Strategic Management, Eighth Ed. (2005). Columbus, OH: Primis Online, The McGraw-Hill Companies.
What is Puget Sound Chrysalis. (2003). Seattle, WA: Puget Sound Chrysalis. http://www.pschrysalis.com/
What is Puget Sound Chrysalis. (2003). Seattle, WA: Puget Sound Chrysalis. http://www.pschrysalis.com/
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