Experience has shown that a well-prepared orientation covers these elements (most of which are addressed in this site):
- Orientation agendas
- Overview of CNCS programs
- AmeriCorps or VISTA program goals
- Your organization's mission/goals
- Ice breakers, warm-ups and team building
- Member benefits
- Allowable member activities (vs. prohibited ones)
- Assurances from CNCS
- Placement site orientation
- Progressive disciplinary procedures
- Performance measures
- Evaluation
Seasoned program directors offer two succinct bits of advice for planning an orientation:
- Start early
- Document your process, using checklists, for example
Neil Schulman of Northwest Service Academy in Portland (Oregon) begins planning his October training and delegating responsibilities to other staff members in March—a full six months' lead time. Click here to read Schulman's step-by-step process, including types of skills training and when to call on outside experts.
Go on to Orientation Agendas
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