Module 6: Informing Sustainability & Regeneration Efforts

Purpose of this Module:

The purpose of this module is to help you plan for sustainability of the Gabby System by using a sustainability plan.

Learning Objectives:

1. Describe the importance of sustainability planning before implementation.
2. Identify questions that might be considered in discussions about sustainability.

Sustainability and Regeneration Planning

Establishing a sustainability plan before implementation is important to ensure the long-term delivery of the Gabby System. A sustainability plan describes the goals and plans for continuation of the program in its current or modified state. When visioning sustainability, you will want to consider the extent to which Gabby can be a) delivered over time, b) integrated into routine practice, and c) maintained through capacity building.

Visioning short, intermediate, and long program outcomes before implementation will allow you to monitor and evaluate the program (see Module 5) and to make the necessary adjustments to guide your long-term plans. For example, based on the outcome data derived from implementing the Gabby system, you may need to adjust your sustainability plan to meet the needs identified by clients, staff and partners, funding climate, and site priorities. These adjustments may require that you work on adjusting/ regenerating the Gabby System to be relative to the program/ site/ clients and fit the needs of your population. Collectively determining what sustainability means to you as a site, developing priorities, and a plan will ensure sustainability of the program in its current or modified state.

Key Takeaways:

• Sustainability and regeneration are part of a visioning process that should start before implementation.
• Feedback from clients, stakeholders, and staff informs sustainability and is necessary to prioritize goals and establish consensus about long-term plans for the Gabby System.