Process Evaluation

Measuring Countywide Policy Implementation and Enforcement

Client Profile
A county-level prevention division was awarded funds for a multi-year initiative aimed at reducing binge and underage drinking among youth. As part of their funding requirement an independent evaluation was required to document the effectiveness of their efforts.

Challenge/Situation
Project administrators needed a way to measure the policy development process, as well as the implementation and related outcomes associated with new laws designed to curb underage drinking.

Services Provided
Using an in-depth qualitative approach, EVALCORP developed a process and

outcome evaluation strategy

to document the policy advancement process, corresponding levels of enforcement, and resulting outcomes of the policy initiative. EVALCORP carried out extensive document reviews, media output tracking, youth surveys, focus groups, and key informant interviews with community stakeholders involved in the process. Following extensive analyses of all collected data, a summary report was developed and provided to project stakeholders.

Results/Value Added
EVALCORP was requested to present findings from the evaluation at multiple statewide conferences and before the County Board of Supervisors on behalf of the client organization. Lessons learned through the evaluation process continue to be shared with other agencies implementing similar initiatives. The client organization received national recognition by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention for their outstanding work.