Evaluating Inclusive Program Practices

Abstract Information: David J. Bernstein, DJB Evaluation Consulting, will present lessons learned about inclusive planning involving people with disabilities, older adults, and caregivers. A U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Community Living funded project supported knowledge building and demonstration projects focused on how inclusive coordinated planning can improve transportation programs for people with disabilities and older adults. The session will present the “Pathway to Inclusion,” a diagnostic tool with standardized rubrics that can be inclusively used to assess the level and extent of inclusiveness of a program, organization, or community. The methodology encourages a dialogue about inclusiveness, identification of differences of opinion, and encourages discussions about inclusive program management. Standardized performance measures for monitoring inclusive practices will be presented and discussed. The presentation will also include lessons learned about inclusion that can be used to guide inclusive planning and evaluation of programs. Dr. Kathryn Newcomer, The George Washington University, will provide insights on the importance of stakeholder inclusion in program planning and evaluation.