Overview
Because effective approaches can only bring about widespread change if they are broadly implemented, P/PV devotes considerable attention to promoting programs and strategies with proven track records of success. We do this by reproducing proven models in new locations, providing technical assistance where needed and informing policymakers and practitioners about what works.
To view the "Action" clip from P/PV's 30th anniversary video, click
here.
Replicating and Expanding Effective Programs
P/PV helps replicate highly effective, evidence-based social programs that make a real and lasting difference in people's lives. Historically there has been little guidance and expertise available to social programs to direct them on a secure path for growth. P/PV has developed a vast body of knowledge about successfully reproducing proven models. We work with an array of nonprofit organizations, philanthropic entities and federal, state and local governments to support large-scale replications in various fields, assisting with three key tasks:
- Defining a Program's Essential Elements. By looking closely at a program's framework and implementation history, we identify key components that will be necessary to include when replicating the program in new sites. This process can also be a valuable precursor to rigorous evaluation, helping programs pinpoint the elements that are best suited for testing.
- Planning for a Program's Growth. Once it is clear that a program is ready, P/PV develops a concrete, user-friendly manual to guide the implementation process in new communities. Designed to foster effective and cost-efficient implementation, the manual includes important start-up information on selecting implementing agencies and target areas and developing staffing requirements, performance measures, etc. Next, we create a training curriculum for all future sites to ensure that the program's content and staffing skills are uniform, to encourage fidelity to the program model and to plan for technical assistance during early start-up.
- Managing a Program's National Replication. After a growth plan has been completed and an evaluation showing evidence of effectiveness carried out, a program may be ready for national replication. P/PV helps to craft and manage national replications by first assessing the feasibility and desirability of replication. We then help programs begin to create the internal structures and processes as well as the funding streams needed to ensure effective large-scale replications.
This pragmatic approach responds to a stark reality: the enormous disparity between any given social problem and the level of resources available to combat it. Replicating quality programs and reproducing the positive outcomes these programs engender spread successes far and wide without wasting precious resources reinventing the wheel.
To access a brochure about our approach to replicating social programs, click here.
Providing Technical Assistance
P/PV provides targeted technical assistance to a wide variety of organizations, including those in P/PV-run demonstrations and initiatives, as well as individual organizations simply seeking to improve their programs. Once we have worked to identify organizational needs, we assist in a number of ways, including: leading topic-specific trainings and workshops; conducting conference calls, webinars or on-site meetings; and establishing learning communities for organizations to share challenges, insights and successful strategies.
We work with programs to strengthen their capacity in a range of areas, including high-quality program implementation (based on "best practices" in mentoring, out-of-school time, employment, crime reduction and reentry, and community health), enhancing or creating effective data collection systems, establishing methods of continuous program improvement and preparing for program expansion.
Informing Policymakers and Practitioners about the Lessons of our Work
Each year, P/PV's many initiatives generate an impressive amount of data and point to important lessons in a variety of fields. We work to interpret these findings for public officials, providing specific recommendations that inform decisions at all levels of government. See our Policymakers Resource Center for more information about our efforts to advance wise public policy. Similarly, we take the lessons from our work and disseminate them to program managers and staff in the form of short, accessible reports and hands-on guides and tools. We also seek to build the capacity of service-delivery organizations through a number of leadership development academies and workshops for staff on the frontlines. See the Practitioners Resource Center for more information about these efforts.
Related Publications
