Title
Review and Recommend Mastick Senior Center Member Input and Program Evaluation.
Body
To: Honorable Chair and Members of the Recreation and Park Commission
From: Amy Wooldridge, Recreation and Parks Director
Re: Review and Recommend Mastick Senior Center Member Input and Program Evaluation.
BACKGROUND
At the May 11, 2017 Recreation and Parks Commission meeting, a letter was read from a Mastick Senior Center member (included in those meeting minutes) that expressed concern and a need for more membership input into programs. The Commission requested that staff review the issue and placed the item on the June 8, 2017 agenda.
On Wednesday, May 17, 2017, Recreation Manager Jackie Krause and Recreation and Parks Director Amy Wooldridge presented a report to the Mastick Senior Center Advisory Board that outlined all current procedures for program evaluation and opportunities for member input. The Board unanimously voted to “uphold and support the current procedures for Mastick Senior Center member input and program evaluation.” These procedures are discussed below.
DISCUSSION
A variety of tools are employed to ensure that the array of programs offered at Mastick Senior Center are well-balanced and reflect the needs and request of members. Currently, over 100 weekly programs are offered in the areas of health, education, and recreation providing an opportunity for life-long learning and an outlet for social engagement. Classes are introduced, evaluated and monitored using the following practices:
• Three Suggestion Boxes are available for program feedback and suggestions. The Suggestion Boxes are located in the Media Room, Social Hall, and online at masticksuggestion@alamedaca.gov <mailto:masticksuggestion@alamedaca.gov>, which is listed on the last page of the monthly newsletter and is a link on the Mastick website.
• Staff is available on-site at the Center and offers an “open door” policy. Feedback is welcomed and received throughout the day.
• Before classes are arranged and offered at the Center, staff evaluate member interest by posting a flier in the Lobby area and often throughout the Center requesting that interested members register for the program. Program registration occurs in the Mastick Office. Program development is pursued if five or more members express interest in a particular program.
• A cross sampling of ongoing classes are evaluated annually in the fall. Staff provides instructors with evaluation forms to disseminate to individuals enrolled in classes. Evaluations are tallied and available for reference. Staff addresses concerns or commendations with instructors. Going forward, class evaluation forms will be made available in the Lobby at all times, along with other fliers.
• The Alameda County Area Agency on Aging (AAA) provides an annual grant to the City of Alameda for Mastick Senior Center. An element of their program evaluation process includes reviewing a sampling of class/program surveys completed by members participating in classes offered at Mastick Senior Center.
• Staff works closely with the Mastick Senior Center Advisory Board (MSCAB). This is a 15-member body serving as the active advisory committee for the Center. The MSCAB supports 10 committees that assist with the objectives of the MSCAB - long range planning, fundraising, volunteer recognition, facility and grounds improvement, etc. The MSCAB and their support committees are represented by members involved in Center activities. MSCAB members are frequently engaged in Center programs. MSCAB members speak with activity participants and often bring that feedback to the entire board for discussion. This gives Mastick members another avenue to share comments and/or concerns directly with the advisory board members.
• The MSCAB’s Long Range Planning Committee conducts a Member Survey to learn how members find out about the Center; its monthly activities; and what programs and activities are of interest for members. The most recent Member Survey was conducted from January 10, 2017 - March 10, 2017 with 14.8% of the membership participating. The survey results were reported out to the Mastick Senior Center Advisory Board (MSCAB). The survey is circulated every three to four years and is made available online, as well as in a paper format at the Center.
• When a specific concern is raised, staff may also reach out to members by phone to discuss and ascertain a clearer understanding of the situation. This allows for members to share their concerns directly with staff rather than in a group setting.
• Lastly, Staff identifies potential programs through professional sources such as conferences and symposiums offered by the California Parks and Recreation Society (CPRS), communicating with other professionals in the field and within our organization, and monitoring trends and best practices.
The Center entertains a minimum of 250 and a maximum of 400 daily participants Monday through Friday. Both instructors and members express their satisfaction with programs by maintaining their long-term relationship with the Center.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
There is no financial impact from this report.
RECOMMENDATION
Review and Recommend Mastick Senior Center procedures for member input and program evaluation.
Respectfully submitted,
Jackie Krause, Recreation Manager
Amy Wooldridge, Recreation and Parks Director