E4.4 Volunteers & staff
Program Quality Standards Menu
Program Quality Standards
The Program Quality Standards (PQS) are a tool to help Programs develop and increase quality of programmatic areas and overall operations. They help Programs identify what to focus on in order to provide athletes with the highest quality programming. Frequently Asked Questions
Program Quality Standards: Frequently Asked Questions
The Program Quality Standards (PQS) are a tool to help Programs develop and increase quality of programmatic areas and overall operations. They help Programs identify what to focus on in order to keep moving forward.
Family Engagement
Stage 1
Program collects basic information on families and provides at least one education opportunity for families annually.
Stage 2
Program communicates with families regularly, has a formal families structure to get input. At least 3 education or networking opportunities are provided for families each year.
Stage 3
Family members serve in leadership roles at all levels within the Program. Program provides a year-round schedule of education and networking opportunities for families.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I)
Stage 1
Program has a DE&I policy and makes internal efforts to promote DE&I through outreach, programming and marketing.
Stage 2
Program integrates DE&I into all aspects of its operations and seeks to support and promote DE&I efforts externally.
Stage 3
Program is a leader in DE&I implementation and a respected national or state DE&I influencer and thought leader.
Volunteer Recruitment
Stage 1
Program proactively seeks new volunteers (e.g. online or at events) and has regular training opportunities for volunteers.
Stage 2
Program has a formal recruitment process for volunteers and has a volunteer retention strategy.
Stage 3
Program engages institutions, organizations, and companies to recruit volunteers. Program retains and/or increases volunteer numbers year on year.
Volunteer Recognition
Stage 1
Program provides basic recognition for staff and volunteers, including coaches (e.g. thank you letters).
Stage 2
Program has formal recognition program for staff, volunteers, and coaches (e.g. awards, special events).
Stage 3
Program partners with external recognition/certification partners to enhance volunteer and staff recognition and retention.
Staff Performance
Stage 1
Program has written job descriptions for key paid staff and/or volunteer leadership positions.
Stage 2
Program sets annual goals and evaluates progress for paid staff and volunteers in key leadership roles.
Stage 3
Program has a formal staff performance management and professional development process.