Complete a needs assessment for the population to be targeted by the family literacy program. Use demographic data from sources such as the U.S. Census to determine eligibility, income levels, literacy levels and so forth.
Create a vision for a program that would address the problems discovered in the needs assessment. Choose the curricula, the delivery model and other program elements that would best achieve literacy goals for the target population.
Acquire funding and support for the program by writing grants, soliciting donations and requesting in-kind support to meet the program's requirements. Appeal to local businesses, foundations and religious organizations for assistance.
Schedule the programming for times that are convenient for and places that are most accessible by the target population.
Recruit volunteers and support persons to fulfill the needs of programming and administration. Publicize the need for volunteers through media outlets, religious organizations, schools and so forth. Community colleges may provide assistance.
Make arrangements for transportation and child care needs for participants. These are potential barriers to effective programming for low-income families and need to be addressed as completely as possible. Also make arrangements for meals and snacks.
Train volunteers in use of the chosen curriculum, modeling literacy behaviors for parents and tutoring skills. Be sure to include training related to working with individuals from different economic and ethnic/cultural groups.
Publicize the program and enroll participants. Utilize referrals and publicity distribution networks of organizations that serve low-income and unemployed individuals.
Register participants and provide reminder calls before each session.
Utilize a contract that states what services will be provided and what commitments are expected from participants.
Gather entry and exit data to assess achievement of program goals.
Provide door prizes or other tangible incentives for program completion.