Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #112531

Kristen Rouspil, MPH, Policy Division, SRI International, 333 Ravenswood Drive, Menlo Park, CA 94025, 650-859-2218, kristen.rouspil@sri.com

First 5 California dollars have enabled County Commissions to invest in young children during the most critical period (birth to age 5) of their physical, cognitive, and social development. During fiscal year 2003-04, First 5 County Commissions funded and partnered with a range of agencies to conduct nearly 2, 500 programs to improve the lives of close to 19 million young children and their families throughout the state.

The statewide evaluation has systematically collected information on all participants served and activities conducted by First 5 programs to assess whether gaps exist in types of services available and populations served. The evaluation also has collected data on participant satisfaction with First 5 services. Thus far, data demonstrate that First 5 programs are successfully serving the children most at risk and providing them with the supports needed for optimal development. Information on programs and participants has been used to improve County Commissions' policy and planning decisions and to make sure that resources are allocated to those children and families most in need. It also has been used to refine outreach efforts and to maintain public support for First 5.

This presentation provides information on the systematic data collection methods used to document participants served and services provided by First 5 programs, results obtained, and uses of evidence gathered.

Learning Objectives:

• 3. Describe the extent to which First 5 programs are serving the children most in need of health, educational, and social services.
  6. List five services commonly delivered to children and families.
  9. Provide two examples of how data were used to influence program planning or policy development.