GOAL 1: To expand the number of rural communities and villagers impacted by the READ model
From 1991- 2009, READ built 49 community library and resource centers in Nepal and India, with a 100% success rate of economic sustainability. READ Center patron evaluations speak to a high degree of satisfaction among communities that have been impacted by a READ enter. This proven track record speaks to the viability of the model, as well as the demand, and in 2009 over 20 additional communities in Nepal had submitted comprehensive proposals that could be funded if the financial resources were available. The model has been replicated in India, and research & fact finding in other countries indicate a strong potential for similar success.
GOAL 2: To improve the quality of services provided to the rural communities and villagers that READ serves
Over the nearly two decades of READ’s existence, the methodology of establishing the READ Centers has constantly been refined and improved based on lessons learned, monitoring in the field, and anecdotal evidence. Having hired its first full time monitoring and evaluation officer, READ has an opportunity to develop more formal evaluation efforts to determine areas of service that need to be improved in each village, measured impact of selected indicators, and subsequently launch training and other continuing education programs.
GOAL 3: To increase awareness of the READ model and its impact in rural villages
With funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, READ has the potential to expand its previously modest communications and marketing efforts to enhance that manner in which READ’s model is presented on various electronic and print formats. With this enhanced presence, READ also has the potential to attract greater media attention to its proven model. This will aid READ’s development efforts, as well as educate others working in the developing world about READ’s unique model for economic sustainability that they can replicated, ensuring that limited resources for international development have a greater impact.
GOAL 4: To establish an ambitious, scalable, and sustainable revenue stream to support READ’s programs
To accommodate future organization growth, the end of funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in 2011, and the increased demand by communities and villages and other countries for READ Centers, READ will need to diversity its donor base and build its board to accommodate this period of rapidly expanding growth. READ affiliate offices will also be required to develop their own sustainable revenue plans, so that READ Global can reduce its fundraising requirements for older, more experienced affiliates, as it brings on new affiliate offices.
