Feasibility Study for Youth Programs & Fellowships

What a good one includes

• A clear community needs assessment demonstrating the specific challenges local youth face and how your program directly addresses them.
• An operational plan detailing volunteer-to-youth ratios, safe environment policies, and facility requirements.
• A realistic three-year budget projection outlining startup costs, ongoing operational expenses, and potential funding sources like tithes, grants, or sponsorships.
• A structured outline of the program's developmental or spiritual curriculum, including weekly schedules and mentorship milestones.
• A risk assessment and mitigation plan covering liability insurance, emergency protocols, and student transportation safety.
• Defined success metrics and evaluation methods to measure both the personal growth and social impact on the participating youth.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Overestimating volunteer availability and failing to plan for the high burnout rates common in faith-based youth ministry.
• Neglecting to include rigorous child safety guidelines and background check protocols, which immediately raises red flags for board members and insurers.
• Presenting vague financial estimates instead of concrete, line-item costs for curriculum, food, outings, and liability insurance.
• Assuming local families will automatically participate without conducting surveys or focus groups to verify actual interest and scheduling availability.

Frequently asked questions