PASA is focusing efforts in three target areas

PASA is working to establish a citywide system that supports high quality after-school programs and increased participation in them. To this end, PASA has focused its work on three targeted investments:

1. Quality Improvement and Capacity Building
2. Development of AfterZones
3. Building the Capacity of the City's Recreation Centers

Middle School Youth - A First Priority

After examining the research, data and existing allocation of resources, it was clear that PASA needed to concentrate its initial resources on the 6,000 middle school youth in Providence. At the same time, we recognize that it will be essential to develop a plan for supporting all youth in the City as an ultimate goal. PASA also intends to continually engage parents and youth in the development of its work and regularly assess the needs and recommendations of youth and parents to ensure quality improvements are appropriate and measurable. Click here to view two market research studies PASA commissioned in 2004 and 2006 to identify youth and parent perceptions and needs.

More than 150 partner organizations and city-department heads are working on an ongoing basis to shape PASA's plans through participation in work groups and regular meetings of the Advisory Committee . PASA staff are also advised by the Steering Committee chaired by Mayor David N. Cicilline that consists of parents, youth, and representatives from the recreation, school, library and police departments, as well as large and small after school providers. These valuable contributions better position the work of the alliance: to mobilize resources and create change.

The Business Plan

During the initial months of planning, a business plan was created to guide PASA's planning, action, evaluation, and improvement. Our business plan highlights the importance of consistently working towards decisions informed by data. PASA's role is defined in terms of specific indicators of effectiveness. And implementation plans are developed to guide action while continually monitoring progress. Periodic program reviews will identify strategies for improving progress and results. Click here to view a summary of PASA's business plan and logic model for the three strategies.