The HOPE initiative was founded in 2017 at Bunker Hill Community College (BHCC)  to examine and eliminate the social, institutional, and academic barriers that often prevent males of color from achieving their full potential at BHCC and beyond. This asset-based, student-centered initiative is run by a group of faculty, staff, and students at BHCC. HOPE aims to transform inequitable systems and structures so that Black and Latino males can thrive. HOPE plans to expand in the coming years to include other ethnic groups and women. 

HOPE is focused on:

• Qualitative and quantitative data collection, analysis, and dissemination
• Assessing and addressing gaps in college programs and services
• Affinity-based mentoring

In 2022, HOPE embarked on an abridged strategic planning process with Root Cause to build upon its work and impact to date. Together, we determined the optimal measures of success for its program, ensured alignment of outcomes and activities with staff capacity and BHCC’s priorities and programs, and developed a menu of options to pursue to ensure HOPE’s long-term financial sustainability.

The results of this abridged strategic planning process included: clearly articulated goals and key outcomes for effective dissemination and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, alignment of HOPE’s activities with staff capacity and BHCC’s priorities and programs, and a set of recommendations for HOPE to ensure long-term financial sustainability. 

In Phase I & II of the Strategic Planning Process, Root Cause 

• Reviewed all quantitative and qualitative data available and drew insights to understand the current state and impact made so far

• Facilitated a learning and reflection session with key stakeholders
• Facilitated working sessions with the HOPE core team
• Developed a Theory of Change 
• Developed a funding plan and inventory
• Developed communication materials with tailored messaging for different stakeholders
• Developed an annual action plan

Phase III- Finalizing Deliverables 

Using an iterative process that prioritized feedback and collaboration throughout the project, Root Cause delivered a strategic planning folder that included a strategic plan document, Theory of Change, Action plan, Fact Sheet, and recommendations for future steps to ensure alignment with values while maintaining long-term financial sustainability.