Evaluation Process – FFE We recommend the following steps for Family Finding and Engagement (FFE): 1. Assemble an evaluation team as part of your program implementation team 1.i. Establish research partnerships if needed (university, county, regional training academies, local and national research agencies) 2. Identify needed resources (fiscal, personnel, in-kind) to conduct evaluation 3. Review the sample logic model to orient the entire implementation and evaluation teams about the scope of the project. 3.i. Make any changes necessary to tailor the logic model to meet your community needs. These changes should derive from the practice model you are utilizing. 3.ii. Ensure that activities, outputs and/or outcomes are measurable and directly related to the programming. Measurable means that activities, outputs and/or outcomes are feasible, obtainable and can be tracked given your current level of resources. Note: The attached logic model was constructed, as a resource that targets children at the back end of the system; if your practice model and purpose are to target a different population, please tailor the logic model to fit the needs of your project/program. The logic model also ascribes to the Family Finding model. NOTE: If you choose to make significant alterations or install only some elements of the Family Finding model, you are encouraged to adjust your outcomes accordingly. 4. Determine the method to measure organization activities, implementation activities/outputs, short term outcomes, outcomes, etc. 5. Prioritize your outcomes and ensure they are linked to the overarching goals of the project. 6. Determine your evaluation design and answer questions such as: a. Will you be using a quantitative or qualitative approach or mixed methods approach? b. Will you be utilizing comparison groups or randomized trials? c. Determine how you establish baseline data. 7. Determine methods for acquiring data. Answer questions such as: a. Will you be using primary or secondary sources of data? b. Will you be using surveys, focus groups, observation or will you be creating your own a database to store FFE data? c. Choose and develop your tools for your priorities.

IMPORTANT: If necessary, complete any human subjects review protocols and obtain IRB approval. (IRB approval is needed to approve evaluation or research on or about human beings. Approval must occur prior to launch).

1. Provide training to staff about their role in the administration of the tools 2. Launch of the evaluation process a. Begin data collection (as a pilot, if feasible) b. Review a small sample of data and make any modifications or corrections c. Expand data collection to a larger sample or larger population d. Review data and make any modifications or corrections e. Report and disseminate findings to interested groups and stakeholders