Outreach programs do phenomenal work assisting hard-to-reach, vulnerable populations in accessing and utilizing available health resources. The value of this work is evident to outreach professionals; however, the practice of evaluating outreach efforts allows program staff to communicate this value in a structured manner to others, such as administrators and funders. The ability to demonstrate success in helping health centers reach their goals and objectives is key to securing the future of outreach programs. The future of outreach depends upon each program’s ability to impact their health center’s stated goals and objectives.
Over the years, Health Outreach Partners has spent considerable effort in understanding how evaluation occurs in outreach programs. HOP’s most recent National Needs Assessment highlights data collection and evaluation findings including how data collection relates to funding, sustainability, and outreach program expansion. To get a complete picture of outreach program data collection practices and challenges, you can access the full report, Breaking Down the Barriers, under the Outreach Resources tab on our website.
Outreach staff cited insufficient time as a significant barrier to collecting data in HOP’s needs assessment. Evaluating efforts can sometimes seem overwhelming given the many responsibilities and daily tasks of outreach workers. Fortunately, resources exist that can help guide the process and take the guesswork out of program evaluation. Evaluation does not have to be a cumbersome, uncomfortable task. HOP developed an Outreach Reference Manual (ORM) to help outreach programs improve effectiveness and sustainability. Chapter 7 of the ORM, “Evaluating Your Outreach Program” includes information on planning your evaluation, collecting and analyzing evaluation data, and using your evaluation findings. The ORM is also found on HOP’s website under the Outreach Resources tab.
Adapting information found in the ORM to meet your program’s unique needs is not only welcome but encouraged. There is always room for creativity and innovation in evaluation practices. For many years, HOP has collected innovative outreach practices from across the nation. Several practices collected over the past decade address data collection and documentation. In order to generate ideas and spark creativity, you may consider reviewing how other programs approach evaluation. The innovative outreach practices database is available online through our website, and you can search by theme and access related practices.
Finally, don’t forget to use HOP’s experienced staff as a resource. We are available to work with you and your program to help address questions, challenges, and planning as it relates to outreach program evaluation. HOP provides customized program development and community needs assessment consultations, as well as outcome evaluation trainings. HOP also has a menu of on-site and off-site consultation services, including a review of your current program for strengths and opportunities for growth. Give HOP a call today to find out how we can assist you in documenting and evaluating your valuable work.