Today the Illinois Park and Recreation Association’s CEO, Bill Wald, and his staff presented the 2007/2008 Strategic Plan to the Board of Directors at the Katherine Legge Memorial Lodge in Hinsdale.
The plan is a continuous working document that provides a clear direction for the work of the association as a unified, future developing organization. Its direction is also to support the Board of Directors in a positive decision making process regarding organizational direction, budget and program priorities.
The plan is not a “work plan” but an open document that may change with the direction of the association. The staff’s work plan, which will be developed upon approval, is a creative, project management orientated document that allows significant research and testing before the outcome as specified is completed.
The presentation below is what was presented at the meeting.
Strategic planning is essential to move any organization forward. I would hope that this plan remains off the shelf, and is evaluated and adjusted on a regular basis by the IPRA staff and Board of Directors.
I am not sure who all participated in the planning process, as the actual participants are not listed anywhere in the documentation. However, I do not recall any announcements soliciting interest or participation from members at-large. Strategic planning should include participation from all stakeholders, to ensure comprehensive input as well as buy-in.
I do applaude the staff and Board of Directors, though, for the willingness and foresight to take on such an initiative, and support the efforts of IPRA to move forward in such a professional manner.
For any persons interested in Strategic Planning, I recommend that you attend the pre-conference workshop Session 310: “Conducting a Strategic Master Planning Session”, which will be presented by Tom Kruse and Greg Miller on Thursday, January 25, 2007 from 1:00 - 4:30 pm in the Toronto Room. Pre-registration is required, and the workshop qualifies for .3 CEU’s.
Best for 2007 to all…