161 - Evaluating a federal model demonstration grant to transition Individuals with Disabilities to Competitive Integrated Employment

Abstract Information: This presentation focuses on the approach for evaluating the Georgia CREATE project, a federally funded model demonstration grant, that focuses on focuses on participant, provider and system-level interventions to transition individuals with disabilities from Subminimum Wage employment (SWE) to Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE). Key participant and provider level interventions focus on empowering individuals with disabilities using person-centered plans, benefits counselling including via Disability Benefits 101 (DB101) website, assistive technology services, supported employment services, apprenticeships, systematic instruction, customized employment, and wraparound supports. Focus is on adults in day services at providers that hold 14c certificates in Georgia and students who are transitioning from high schools. Since many individuals with significant disabilities live with family, project focuses on educating and engaging parents and family about customized integrated employment options in the community. A logic model is used as the foundation for evaluation. Both process and outcome evaluation to be conducted. Methodologies including pre-implementation interviews, fidelity reviews, surveys, focus groups, observations, document reviews used to collect data from program personnel and participants. Training and technical assistance evaluations are used to guide implementation. An excel-based program monitoring and evaluation system is used to monitor and track project process data. Data collected internally by the State Vocational Rehabilitation Agency through two databases is used for tracking key process and outcome indicators. Key evaluation approaches, methodologies and preliminary findings will be presented. The goal of evaluation is to identify which of project’s services, practices or strategies are associated with CIE in the community. Ultimate outcomes for participants include transitioning from adult services or SWE to CIE or choosing CIE for those who were contemplating SWE. Implications for evaluating projects focusing on employment of individuals with significant disabilities to CIE as well as broader implications for the evaluation theory and practice will be discussed.