An Inquiry-based Approach to Agency Improvement
The Agency Readiness Index: A Self-Assessment and Planning Guide to Gauge Agency Readiness to Work with Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Youth (ARI) is an organizational development tool designed to assess how well an agency provides services for sexual minority youth. It serves as a group discussion guide to identify and discuss areas in which an agency is competent and also areas in which improvements can be made. The instrument was developed by the National Network for Youth as part of a Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – funded capacity - building initiative.
Agencies may find ARI especially helpful in the following situations:
- Prior to embarking on a strategic planning process
- During times of challenge for the organization
- When engaging an organization development consultant
- As pre-work or discussion fodder at a staff or board retreat
An agency undertaking ARI involves its staff, board members, youth, and other stakeholders in a process of reflection and learning. ARI is organized around seven modules of agency performance: leadership, operating standards, human resources, staff knowledge and development, agency climate/environment, HIV prevention programs, and community relations. Each module contains of series of questions. All questions should be answered individually and a collective score should be given for each module. The results of each module are then used for future planning.
The tool can be used to assist an agency in gaining a better understanding of its strengths and weaknesses with respect to working with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth. You can use the results of the Index on several different levels. On one level, your collective responses will provide a general indication of your agency's current functioning. On another level, it shows your agencies strengths and weaknesses relative to its developmental stage. On yet another level, it can be used to identify potential areas for improvement or provide useful information for the development of an agency action / strategic plan.
Agencies interested in implementing ARI can receive copies free of charge from the National Network for Youth. Network staff are available to help customize the survey for use in your particular agency. For information on how to receive free copies of ARI or technical assistance, please contact us at:
National Network for Youth
Attn: Best Practice Team
1319 F Street, NW, Suite 401
Washington, D.C. 20004
Tel 202-783-7949
Fax 202-783-7955
www.nn4youth.org