How can Service Coordinators track progress toward individual participant outcomes?
Springfield Housing Authority
(Springfield, IL)
ROSS Service Coordinators measure each participant’s progress toward economic independence and housing self-sufficiency by tracking individual record-level data. Detailed record-keeping allows the Service Coordinator to:
- Assess whether program participants are receiving the supports they need.
- Track individual clients’ progress, provide encouragement, and recognize achievements.
- Tailor referrals and other interventions to the specific needs of individual clients.
- Prepare for reporting data to HUD.
What types of data should ROSS Service Coordinators consider collecting in participant files?
While HUD identifies specific metrics that grantees are required to track, ROSS Service Coordinators may choose to collect a wide range of data to help guide their work. Categories of data that may be relevant depend on the population served, types of services accessed, and participant goals. Specific data that ROSS Service Coordinators may wish to record in participant files can include:
- Basic characteristics (e.g., age, family size, educational attainment, skills, income source(s) and employment status);
- Results from resident needs assessments administered by the Service Coordinator or self-assessment reports provided to the Service Coordinator that describe participants’ needs, barriers, skills, and goals;
- Programs attended (e.g., nutrition seminars, parenting workshops);
- Referrals made and services received;
- Progress in key outcome areas (e.g., employment, education, financial literacy, health); and
- Participation start date and end date.