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Research and Evaluation

Positive Youth Development: Core Concepts and Best Practices

This summary report and accompanying materials outline the core concepts and best practices for implementing Positive Youth Development (PYD) in the City of Los Angeles. The report emphasizes the importance of PYD in fostering a supportive and empowering environment for youth, highlighting the need for physical and psychological safety, supportive relationships, and opportunities for skill-building and belonging. It underscores the value of integrating youth voices in decision-making processes and adapting strategies to be responsive and inclusive of diverse youth experiences. The report also details the collaborative efforts and evidence-based approaches necessary to create a holistic and effective youth development framework. Additionally, it provides recommendations for aligning youth programs with citywide values such as equity, innovation, and joy.

Summary Report

 
Cover of report titled "Positive Youth Development: Core Concepts and Best Practices." The cover of the report features members of the LA City Youth Council in the City Hall Council Chambers.

June 2024

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Fact Sheet

 
Image of page one of a fact sheet on Positive Youth Development.

June 2024

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Presentation

 
Slide one of a slide deck presentation on Positive Youth Development.

June 2024

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Youth Program Evaluation: Core Concepts and Best Practices

This summary report and accompanying materials provide a guide for evaluating youth development programs in Los Angeles. It outlines the core concepts and best practices for program evaluation, including identifying program goals, developing a logical framework, and understanding the theory of change. The report emphasizes the importance of data collection strategies and stakeholder involvement in ensuring comprehensive and effective evaluations. Additionally, it discusses methods for analyzing both qualitative and quantitative data, and the dissemination of findings through various formats.

Summary Report

 
Cover of report titled "Youth Program Evaluation: Core Concepts and Best Practices." The cover of the report features youth and adults sitting outside in a playground area.

 

June 2024

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Fact Sheet

 
Cover sheet of program evaluation factsheet.

June 2024

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Presentation

 
Cover slide of presentation on youth program evaluation.

June 2024

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Evaluation of Youth Development Programming

The three reports below are part of a research series that provides a preliminary youth program evaluation framework for the City of Los Angeles. The reports include an overview of key national best practices for program evaluation, an analysis of existing data collection and evaluation methods of City departments, and recommendations for City departments to strengthen their evaluation and evidence-building practices for youth programs and services. The reports were completed by the Youth Development Department, in partnership with the KH Consulting Group, between December 2023 and March 2024.

Report: Recommendations on Evaluating Youth Development

Cover page a report titled "Recommendations on Evaluating Youth Development." The cover features two members of the Olivia E. Mitchell L.A. City Youth Council.

This final report outlines a comprehensive strategy for evaluating youth development programs in L.A., emphasizing the need for accurate measures, metrics, and milestones. It details an inclusive approach where youth feedback is integral to shaping and assessing key performance measures. It highlights the importance of incorporating sociodemographic data to ensure equity and effectiveness in youth services. 

March 2024 

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Report: Existing City Practices on Youth Metrics, Measures, and Milestones

Cover page a report titled "Interim Report on Existing Practices with Metrics, Measures, and Milestones." The cover features a blurred image of youth planting street trees.

This interim report analyzes current evaluation methods used across various City of Los Angeles departments. The report highlights the importance of consistent engagement, longitudinal tracking of youth development, and empowering youth through comprehensive services. It also identifies current challenges, such as resource constraints and the need for standardized evaluation criteria. 

February 2024

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Report: National Best Practices on Youth Program Evaluation

Cover page a report titled "Interim Report on Evaluating Youth Development: Best Practices for Metrics, Measures, and Milestones." The cover features a blurred images of bikers and pedestrians.

This interim report outlines strategies to enhance youth services based on analysis and case studies from other cities, highlighting best practices and potential challenges to youth programming evaluation. It emphasizes the importance of consistent and reliable evaluation metrics to ensure they align with strategic priorities and values like equity, youth-centeredness, and evidence-based approaches.

December 2023

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