They have been called “best practices,” “effective practices,” “promising practices,” and “evidence based practices” (EBPs). Whatever the “nom du jour,” the emphasis continues to focus on identifying what works and funding programs that demonstrate effective practices and strong outcomes. With a shortage of funds for programs at local, state and national levels, the competition for those funds is stronger now than ever before. The programs that demonstrate meaningful outcomes, and creative and cost effective solutions to community needs will be able to emerge as models, garnering stronger, more diversified funding and support.
One way that your organization can gain an edge is to know the important sources for evidence based practices (EBPs) in your field. Study these models and practices, comparing them to your programs. Analyze outcomes, practices and any available data as a comparison tool to see how your programs compare to national standards in your field. In some cases, you may have a program practice that can contribute something new to the field. If that’s the case, you can use the information about these models and practices together with your analysis to start a conversation with other practitioners and experts in the field. You can also use this information about models, effective practices and your program practices for your program reports and requests for funding.
The Urban Institute, the What Works Clearinghouse and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) have identified outcomes and effective practices for many types of community programs and services. The Urban Institute has conducted decades-long research on nonprofit programs and services, and is the developer of the taxonomy for exempt organizations, used as a classification by the IRS.
The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid have continued to focus on funding practices that have strong health outcomes and cost savings. And the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality has a comprehensive catalogue of effective practices and quality measures.
Evidence based practices in programming for older adults can be found at the National Council on Aging’s website, and other health related sites. The Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) has pioneered many of the most effective community-based care practices.
Community corrections effective practices and evidence based practices in restorative justice can be found through the Center for Restorative Justice, the Justice Management Institute and other research organizations.
The Administration for Children and Families of the U.S. DHHS has a number of websites that provide information about effective practices, including the CY&F Evidence Based Practices Registry, and the National Clearinghouse for Youth and Families. And, national funders like the Annie E. Casey and Wallace Foundations have information on effective practices in programs for children, youth and families.
New Ventures Consulting is proud to announce the launch of Evidence Based Practice Resources for Community Programs.
Available on www.newventuresconsulting.net after October 10th.
Anne Hays Egan, Principal
New Ventures Consulting
EzineArticles Expert Author
