The new Strategic Plan for COMPASS began in 2004 with a Board workshop to re-identify the agency's vision, mission, and values. Between that first meeting in early 2004, and throughout 2005, the agency solidified its vision and mission, agreed on its core values, created work teams, and defined goals, objectives, and tasks. This strategic plan reflects that work, and will influence the development of the agency's “unified planning work program and budget,” – a requirement of the federal government that directs the work flow of mandated organizations such as COMPASS. The COMPASS Board approved the plan in January 2006.