Implementing the Girls Circle Program in Chicago: Lessons Learned

• In Event: The Girls Circle: A Randomized Evaluation of a Structured Support Group Program for Girls

Abstract

In conjunction with the outcome evaluation, a process evaluation of the Girls Circle program was conducted to assess the program fidelity and comprehensively understand the context in which the program was delivered. A process evaluation is important because many programs that fail to show an impact typically fail to deliver the services as specified (i.e., implementation failure). Thus, among programs that do not demonstrate success, it is useful to distinguish between those that were implemented correctly and those that were not. This process evaluation focused on three components of program fidelity: (1) adherence (whether the program services were being delivered as designed; (2) exposure (the quantity of the program); and (3) quality (the skill and attitude in using the prescribed techniques or methods). The methodology and results of the process evaluation are discussed.

Authors

• Amanda Bobnis, Development Services Group, Inc.

• Stephen Gies, Development Services Group, Inc.

• Marcia Cohen, Development Services Group, Inc.

• Giovanna Taormina, One Circle Foundation