The purpose of the Development Matrix is to assist the leaders of community service Federal Work-Study (FWS) efforts in planning for future development of their programs. Users of this document should begin by identifying the level (1 ’“ 4) that best describes each element of their current community service FWS efforts. Different program elements may fit in different levels. Leaders are then encouraged to work with colleagues on campus, students, and partners in the community to establish specific goals for development in some or all program element areas (for example, striving to move up by one level in Program Element areas 1, 5, and 8 within 18 months).

Note that these levels do not represent chronological stages of development in all cases. In addition, institutions may find that elements of their current program fall into more than one level; users should strive to identify the level that most represents current realities. The descriptions may need to be reworded for some institutions. Program elements that appear in Levels 1 or 2 should not necessarily be considered “wrong” or “weak.” They may be important steps in laying a foundation for a more fully developed program in the future.

Based on observation, Level 1 represents the majority of U.S. institutions of higher education today (with the exception of Program Element #10, since the vast majority of institutions do meet the 7% mandate). Level 2 represents good efforts to strengthen elements of the community service FWS program. Level 3 represents elements of a very solid program. Level 4 represents an exceptionally high-quality program. (Few institutions currently achieve this level.)

Based on “Principles of Good Practice in Community Service Work-Study” by Erin Bowley and Marsha Adler (Campus Compact, 2002).