SRAE projects provide sexual risk avoidance education using one of the following EBPs:
Getting Started with Evidence-Based Programs
If you're new to implementing evidence-based programs (EBPs), you'll find we put a great deal of emphasis on fidelity: implementing the program as it was designed. That is because while all EBPs have been evaluated and found to be effective, we don't know specifically which content, teaching strategies, and implementation factors make the program effective. If we want to see positive outcomes, we can't improvise because we might be tampering with the "recipe" that makes the program work. That is why it is important to deliver the program as developed, staying true to its core components. Doing this successfully requires considerable planning and preparation.More information:
Planning for Evidence-Based Programming
EBP Implementation Plan Template
Organizational Readiness
Organizational readiness is vital for successful implementation. If upper-level administrators, coordinators, and frontline educators alike do not understand why the project was funded, the project's implementation goals, and the demands of implementation with fidelity and quality, they are unlikely to support successful implementation. The checklist below outlines key points and recommendations with regard to organizational support/readiness, and can also be used as an assessment tool.
Organizational Support Checklist
Implementation Team
ACT for Youth highly recommends establishing an implementation team, which is identified as a best practice in implementation science literature. The purpose of the implementation team is to guide and monitor the implementation process. With the right people on board, the implementation team brings together special expertise and perspectives regarding evidence-based programming, implementation strategies, organizational capacity, performance management, and community engagement. The team can greatly strengthen the efforts of project staff.
Team membership should include but go beyond project staff (SRAE coordinators and educators). In addition to project staff and an agency administrator, it will be extremely helpful to enlist one or two community stakeholders who can bring a community perspective to the implementation team and promote community engagement.
Training for Educators
ACT for Youth will provide educator training for each of the SRAE EBPs. The training schedule is emailed to the SRAE contact list. Questions about training can be directed to Jutta Dotterweich.
ACT for Youth developed an online course as a resource for EBP educators. Designed originally for comprehensive sexual health educators, the course is nevertheless relevant for SRAE educators implementing EBPs. Request a log-in using the form below.
Implementing Evidence-Based Programs: An Online Training for Educators
SRAE: Request log-in for online course
Recruiting and Retaining Participants
Recruiting and retaining youth in prevention programs can be difficult. Although challenges may vary from community to community, there are a few consistent issues that are critical and require advanced planning and action:- Is the program attractive? Do young people see its value and benefits?
- Is the program accessible? Is it convenient and comfortable for participants?
- Are the program implementers skilled in engaging and working with young people?
Recruitment of Program Participants: Planning Questions
Five Strategies for Successful Recruitment and Retention (RAND Toolkit)
Strategies for Recruiting and Retaining Participants in Prevention Programs