Assistance providers can uniquely provide you with an objective outside perspective to support your quest to develop quality after school programs. As you explore the many providers available to you, consider the following tips before selecting which provider can best support your needs.

1. Define Your Need/Project

Have a clear idea of what support you need and what you want to achieve.

2. Gather Background Information

Get two to three references from the provider and contact them. Ask about their quality of work, timeliness, and sticking to the budget (if relevant).

3. Select a Provider

Either through an interview or reference check, ensure that the Assistance Provider:

• Demonstrates sufficient knowledge, capability, and experience related to the particular problems that your organization must address.
• Respects your organization's skills, experience, and history.
• Listens carefully.
• Gathers all of the information necessary to understand your organization and to put the problem in its proper context.
• Prepares adequately.
• Strikes a balance between the broader picture and the details of the specific need.
• Pays attention to internal politics and assess how they fit into the picture.
• Teaches and reinforces skills to complete tasks, instead of completing tasks for you.
• Avails themselves for follow-up support if needed.
• Appears to be genuinely interested in your organization.