Child Welfare – Prevention Special Initiative
We are a strategic evaluation and research partner to the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services (DCS) working to improve the effectiveness of Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA) prevention efforts through rigorous evaluation, actionable data, and the co-creation of sustainable, effective policies and practices with families and youth, providers, community organizations and state agencies.
Strategic Guidance and Technical Assistance
- Partner with DCS to identify family needs and aligned resources and supports
- Support contracted providers implement evidence-based programs through coaching, data use and evaluation, and mentorship
- Collaborate with providers and community organizations to use data to inform decision-making about programs, practices, and policies
- Supporting the development of a shared vision and accountability measures
- Provider peer learning sessions and convenings
Fidelity Monitoring
- Develop fidelity monitoring measures, checklists, and data collection systems
- Co-design data collection tools to garner family feedback
- Conduct Archival/Administrative Data/Document Reviews
- Hold data reflection and sense making sessions
Outcomes Evaluation and Impact
- Assess impact on child and family well-being outcomes (e.g., parenting skills, mental health, family relationships, repeat maltreatment, entry into foster care
- Develop and host learning sessions that highlight prevention and implementation best practices and lessons learned
Team Members
Brian Barber
Implementation Specialist
Amanda Berry
Administrative Specialist
Nate Brophy
Statistical Analyst
Siobhan Costanzo
Lead Evaluation & Research Specialist
Amy Ford-Hulen
Implementation Specialist
Raymond Jenkins
Implementation Specialist
Casey Knotts
Implementation Specialist
Angela Walker-Griffin
Implementation Specialist
