Evaluation is an essential component of Hope Through Housing Foundation’s service strategy.

• HTHF programs aspire to the best, evidence based practices in the field; ongoing program monitoring data gauges how effectively programs are reaching those goals.
• Outcome data is used to gauge the measurable impacts programs have on residents.  For example, academic improvement in After School and Beyond participants, or improved physical functioning for Senior Wellness participants.

What is a Community Assessment?
A Community Assessment is an in-depth study of a community that is home to one of our current or future properties.  It includes:

Statistics and information, like demographics, crime, how the local schools are doing, and the types of businesses and services located there.

Interviews with people who know the community well, like property managers, city officials, principals, school superintendents, law enforcement, social service providers, churches and anyone else who can help us learn about the community.

Focus groups, interviews, and surveys with residents (or prospective residents) to understand what services and programs they need, want, and would use.

Why do we conduct Community Assessments?
To make sure that the services we offer at a property are the services most needed by our residents and the community.  This way we know our residents’ needs are being met and programs have a better chance of being successful.

What happens with the findings of a Community Assessment?
Hope staff uses this information in service planning for the property.  We also share our findings back with the community.

How is a property selected for a Community Assessment?
We select properties to assess based on Hope’s service priorities. New properties and properties with special challenges, opportunities and funding for social services generally receive highest priority.