Program Development

Well-planned program development is key to creating programs that offer the best possible supports to clients.

Creating new, dynamic programs is both an art and a science.

Dream It

Heather consults on developing programs for people who use substances and/or are unhoused or at risk of becoming unhoused. She is available to consult on: ideal shelter elements for unhoused people; essential components of programs for people using substances; best practices; current research; holistic approaches to programs; peer programs; reviews of grant proposals; and more.

Consultations include discussions; questions and answers with board members; or presentations on what an ideal program could look like once it is operational.

 Well-planned and evidence-based program development is key to creating programs that offer the best possible services and supports to clients. These are the programs that also stand out in the process of applying for grants.

Low income housing units, Seattle, WA

Build It

Once the vision has been identified, the next step is to build the program. From laying out the structure of the program to training staff and presenting the concepts to board members, Heather is able to assist you in getting your program up and running.

 Elements of building a new program or organization can include:

  • conducting a needs assessment with service users,

  • translating your vision into writing with program details, staffing, target audience, and best-practices,

  • submitting grant proposals,

  • training new staff.

Heather can assist with these elements in many ways such as developing a written description of your ideal program; strategic planning with staff and / or board of directors; developing and delivering training for staff, and reviewing grant proposals.

Grow It

Keep your organization and programs the best they can be. Programs are dynamic and changing, depending on the needs and interests of the people accessing the services. In order to maintain the strength of programs, it is important to review and revitalize services on occasion.

 Assessing and revitalizing services and programs can include a number of options such as:

  • conduct a program evaluation,

  • work with service users to assess changes in their needs and interests,

  • identify new areas of support for service users,

  • discover new ideas for program expansion.

Heather is skilled in both developing and revitalizing programs and services; contact her to ask about how she can support your organization.

About Dr. Heather Peters

Heather has extensive experience with non-profit and community-based organizations, including:

  • 10 years as a member of a Board of Directors for a shelter for unhoused people including creating and developing programs,

  • 7 years as an Executive Director of a non-profit organization overseeing program development and delivery,

  • and 25 years of program evaluation and research experience.

Heather understands the challenges facing communities, and can work with you to develop a program that best meets the needs and interest of the people in your community. Learn more about Heather’s experience, or contact her for a discussion of what you need.