"Creating Safe Spaces for Lived Experiences: A Case Study of the Community COVID Housing Program Evaluation in Harris County, Texas”

Abstract Information: Led by Dr. Sylvia Epps, President of Decision Information Resources, Inc. (DIR), and Dr. Ronald McCowan, Senior Researcher at DIR, this presentation unpacks a transformative evaluation of the Community COVID Housing Program (CCHP) in Harris County, Texas, which aims to reduce homelessness by offering permanent housing, stability, and supportive services. The evaluation is conducted in partnership with American Institutes for Research (AIR) and DIR. Our approach prioritizes the amplification of marginalized voices and the cultivation of Culturally Responsive and Equitable Evaluation (CREE) practices. Focused on individuals experiencing housing instability, our methodology centers on trauma-informed principles and collaborative engagement with a community advisory board comprising individuals previously unhoused and now work to support others in similar circumstances. Through this approach, we aim to create safe spaces for authentic dialogue while minimizing the risk of re-traumatization. Our evaluation process extends beyond data collection to include equitable data analysis and reflection on lessons learned for future engagement initiatives. By adopting a culturally responsive lens, we aim to challenge biases in our interpretation of data and ensure that findings are grounded in the lived experiences of participants. This session will offer insights into our methodology, highlight key findings from the evaluation, and explore actionable lessons for practitioners seeking to center diverse perspectives in their work. Attendees can expect to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of centering lived experiences in evaluation, as well as practical strategies for fostering inclusive engagement and conducting culturally responsive analyses. This session will be of particular interest to evaluators, researchers, policymakers, and community stakeholders invested in advancing equity and social justice through transformative evaluation practices. Through this presentation, we hope to inspire attendees to reconsider traditional evaluation methods and embrace more inclusive, culturally responsive approaches that prioritize the voices of marginalized communities. By sharing our experiences and lessons learned from evaluating the CCHP, we aim to contribute to a broader conversation on the role of evaluation in advancing equity and driving social change. Join us as we explore the transformative potential of centering lived experiences in evaluation.