Members Only:



Timeline for Starting a Bridge of Hope Affiliate

Training, resources, tools, encouragement and consultation are provided by Bridge of Hope's National Office at each stage in the affiliation development process. This abbreviated timeline gives a brief overview of the start-up process.

Exploration Stage: (2 - 4 months):

  • Request an inquiry packet and prayerfully evaluate God's leading for this ministry in your community.
  • Determine potential level of support within community.
  • Contact Bridge of Hope National Office to discuss questions and the start-up process.

 

Invitation Stage: (1 - 2 months):

  • Invite other Christians to a Bridge of Hope informational meeting.
  • Arrange for staff from Bridge of Hope National Office to present the ministry at the informational meeting.
  • Form Bridge of Hope steering committee.

 

Steering Committee Stage (6 - 12 months):

  • Organize a group of 9 to 15 Christians from at least 6 denominations into a steering committee.
  • Conduct local needs assessment and network with potential referral sources.
  • Generate support among local churches.
  • Raise start-up funds of $2,500 from at least 20 different sources.
  • Develop preliminary program plan, budget and fundraising plan.
  • Begin mailing list of interested individuals, churches and businesses.
  • Submit pre-covenant application.
  • Sign covenant and submit it to Bridge of Hope National Office.

 

Affiliation Stage (1 - 2 months):

  • Establish board of directors and dissolve steering committee.
  • Schedule and hold initial training for board of directors.
  • Incorporate and apply for legally required registrations, tax exemptions, etc.
  • Ratify Bridge of Hope covenant and adopt by-laws
  • Set up record keeping system.
  • Customize log for the affiliate and continue publicity.
  • Obtain insurance.

 

Program Implementation Stage (initial implementation is 2 - 3 months, ongoing):

  • Set up first office.
  • Hire and train director.
  • Train and recruit a family intake committee.
  • Recruit and train first mentors.
  • Serve first family.
  • Continue program planning, budget, marketing and fundraising.
  • Begin formal strategic planning.