The document outlines a 6-step process for creating and maintaining a cultural plan: 1) Decide the scope, 2) Gather information about the community, 3) Analyze the data, 4) Set goals, 5) Implement the plan and do outreach, 6) Ongoing evaluation and maintenance of the living document through community partnerships. Resources mentioned include cultural data projects, blueprints, and technical assistance.

1. STATE AND LOCAL PARTNERSHIPS PROGRAM

2. THE BASICS “ an extensive process of community assessment and participation” How to Create & Maintain a Cultural Plan

3. Step 1: Decide on the Scope The smallest possible scope for your cultural plan would focus on what you can do as a DEC Coordinator. How to Create & Maintain a Cultural Plan

4. Step 2: Information Gathering Who lives in your region? How do they view your region? What do you know about the arts and cultural resources in your region? How to Create & Maintain a Cultural Plan

5. Step 3: Analyze the Data What cultural assets or resources already exist? What are the cultural needs of your region? What is the cultural identity of your region? How to Create & Maintain a Cultural Plan

6. Step 4: Set Goals What cultural programs and activities need continued support? How can we increase cultural opportunities for residents and visitors? How can our DEC program respond to the needs we have identified? How to Create & Maintain a Cultural Plan

7. UTILIZE AVAILABLE RESOURCES Cultural Data Project Cultural Blueprints Service Organizations Technical Assistance Census statistics How to Create & Maintain a Cultural Plan

8. Step 5: Implementation & Outreach Share your cultural plan in your DEC training workshops. Incorporate elements in DEC guidelines, long range plan, program initiatives How to Create & Maintain a Cultural Plan

9. Step 6: Ongoing Evaluation & Maintenance Treat the "final product" as a living document under constant revision. Maintain your cultural plan through on-going evaluation and through development of community partners. How to Create & Maintain a Cultural Plan

10. STATE AND LOCAL PARTNERSHIPS PROGRAM