Goal 1: Enhance Continuum of Care Program planning, evaluation and design
Over the last decade the Homeless Authority has collected data from providers of services that has provided analysis of need, and lead to the development of several new housing and supportive service programs in the community. In order to become more effective in determining trends and evaluating current services we must design and implement a process that is more efficient.

Goal 2: Increase efficiency and communication with staff and knowledge and participation with the Board
In the last five years, and since the last strategic plan, the organization has grown from 17 employees to now averaging around 80 employees. The organizational budget has also increased four times the size to support this staff. Given the structure of the organization and the public role the organization is designed to fulfill, efficiency of operation and increased participation and knowledge of the Board of Directors will help further the organization’s mission.

Goal 3: Increase knowledge and participation of service providers and the general public
The Homeless Authority has fulfilled its role throughout the decade by demonstrating both leadership and effective planning and coordination. This is evidenced by the reduction of the number of homeless in our community by 37%, and the development of key housing and supportive services programs to address community needs. The organization however will need to take a more visible role in the community with all aspects of homelessness communicating issues to the general public and increasingly partner with other organizations for further reduction of homeless people.

Goal 4: Establish new programs and partnerships to prevent homelessness and reduce recidivism
The Chatham-Savannah Continuum of Care was originally created to address homelessness. Funding over the last decade from federal and state entities concentrated on a narrow definition of homelessness. As a result, grants earmarked for those in need seldom addressed those at-risk, the prevention of homelessness or aftercare. As a result we are the victims of our own success. We have done an excellent job in focusing on the here and now, but have had limited success with either the front door or the back door of homelessness.