Which of the following describes the target population in a program development plan?

The target population in a program development plan specifically refers to the individuals that the program intends to serve. This group is the primary focus of the program's services and interventions, and understanding their needs, characteristics, and context is crucial for effective program design and implementation.

Identifying the target population helps in tailoring the program's goals, strategies, and services to address the specific challenges or issues faced by that group. Effective programs rely on this foundational knowledge to ensure they are relevant and beneficial to those who will be directly impacted by the initiative.

In contrast, stakeholders are those involved in the planning or implementation process, but they are not the direct recipients of the program’s services. Funders provide financial support, but they do not constitute the target population that the program is designed to serve. Evaluators assess the program’s effectiveness, yet their role is separate from that of the individuals intended to benefit from the program. Thus, understanding the target population is vital to designing a program that meets the needs of those it aims to help.