ARMY YOUTH PROGRAM EVALUATION

The Army Child, Youth, and School Services (CYSS) is a delivery system, which consists of four programs (i.e., Child Development; School Age; Youth Programs [YP]; and CYSS Liaison, Education, and Outreach) that intend to reduce potential conflict between mission readiness and parent responsibility. By requesting a strong inference evaluation of Army YP, CYSS intends to enhance its utility and effectiveness in supporting the healthy development of military youth. CYSS aims to help youth become high-functioning adults, which can strengthen Army family and Soldier readiness. To date, implementation of YP processes and evidence of intended YP outcomes or cost-effectiveness have not been assessed. Examining these components is required under DODI 1342.22. The Clearinghouse proposes to collaborate with the Army DCS, G9 to address gaps in knowledge regarding program functioning, outcomes, and improvement methods. The Clearinghouse will conduct a process evaluation, outcome evaluation, and cost-benefit analysis of the YP.