When a program is evidence-based, it has been through an experimental design, shown to work, and evaluated at a rigorous level. A research-based program means the incorporated content of a program is supported by current research. Model programs are listed on a website called Blueprints shown with the best evidence of effectiveness, but qualifications can vary by website.
Evaluation is key to knowing, especially for participants, that differences are being made in terms of program quality and outcomes. Funders want to make sure they are putting their money to good use in a sustainable program. Evidence of change being made also helps the program tell its story and get its message across.
When reporting results identify the audience and what they need to know in order to make a decision by using bullet points and putting findings within the context of similar findings. Usually a less biased person that is an advocate for the program that the audience will listen to is a better choice than the researcher who conducted the study. Some general rules when conveying results: simple is always better, pictures help clarify, and use multiple perspectives.
Outcomes can occur at different levels; activities, participants, and system wide outcomes. Process evaluation looks at what went on in the program that is helping achieve the outcomes. Outcome evaluation looks at what is expected to change in the participants when going through the program and why.
Slides and recording of the Grant Writing + You virtual training event hosted by CYFAR PDTA in September 2020.
With the explosion of online learning opportunities, it is important for educators to build safe online learning environments for young people. The aim of this webinar is to teach risk management policies and practices that promote online youth safety. Dr. Skuza will share examples from the Minnesota 4-H Youth Development program. Learning Objectives: Promote online safety for youth. Develop a practical skill set that can be used in most online learning environments with youth. Promote adult and organizational capacity to ensure the safety of youth. Dr.
• Think critically about the meaning of diversity. • To value their own cultures as well as other people’s cultures and to reflect on the lives and perspectives of people who are different from themselves. • To become more aware of the stereotypes we have all inadvertently picked up. • To respect the differences and similarities in people. • To become more comfortable discussing cultural differences.
Data is a powerful tool that can be used to guide program improvement, educate stakeholders, inform decision makers, and motivate funders. This webinar accomplished the following: highlighted online sources of children’s health data; shared resources for promoting good nutrition, physical activity, sleep, and limited screen time; explained tools offered by the CYFAR PDTA Center to assess children’s health behaviors and deliver impactful education and outreach; and demonstrated how to use health statistics to influence local policies and make a case for funding.
Participants learned: (a) Why social responsibility (commitment to others and the greater good) and civic action (e.g., volunteering, community connections) are critical aspects of child and adolescent development; (b) Malleable features of youth-adult relationships and program settings that nurture social responsibility values and civic action; and (c) Concrete activities and practices for leveraging youth-adult relationships to deepen youth’s community connections, voice, and social and civic commitment.
This webinar will explore how to balance volunteer management and development to effectively achieve the mission of your organization. The content will include considerations when tailoring your volunteer delivery system, key concepts to help position your organization to empower and fully utilize volunteers, strategies to engage volunteers and aid in sustaining volunteer commitment, and targeting potential partners as a source for skilled volunteers.