Collect. Analyze. Transform.
WRI can collect, analyze, and present the data you need, and help you transform learnings from that data into project goals. Our staff bring years of experience with various research methods and analysis software, such as SPSS and Dedoose. Our approach to data prioritizes hearing from those most impacted by your services, and finding ways to amplify that voice throughout your process. Our adaptable evaluation team can assist you wherever you are on your research journey. We can develop and implement collection tools such as surveys and focus groups, and interpret data from those tools. Or we can help you analyze data you’ve already collected, and present it in a user-friendly way.
Below is a sampling of our work. Contact us to learn more about the methods WRI utilizes to conduct evaluations!
evaluation Services flyer AHRC Nassau – Evaluation of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Project (2024 to Present) Since March 2024, WRI has partnered with AHRC Nassau to lead a multi-year evaluation of a statewide Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiative focused on improving outcomes for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). This initiative is funded through a grant with the Council on Developmental Disabilities (CDD) and conducted in collaboration with the New York Alliance for Inclusion and Innovation and the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP). The project aims to advance equity and inclusion practices across New York’s human services field.
WRI’s role includes conducting annual statewide assessments, designing pre- and post-training surveys, and facilitating focus groups to gather insight from people with I/DD, their families, and service providers. WRI is also developing participant-informed evaluation tools, feedback polls for Community of Practice meetings, and mid-point and final evaluation reports to track progress through 2028. These efforts support data-informed improvements and center the voices of those most impacted by systemic inequities.
Learn more about AHRC Nassau at https://www.ahrc.org .
Mental Health First Aid (2023 to Present), Mental Health Association in NYS (MHANYS)Since March 2023, WRI has supported the Mental Health Association in New York State (MHANYS) by providing evaluation services for its Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) program, which runs through February 2027. The initiative aims to build mental health awareness and intervention skills across New York through monthly training sessions for adults who may support veterans, older adults, and others facing mental health challenges.
WRI’s role includes finalizing and administering post-training surveys, analyzing data, selecting gift card recipients via random drawing, and producing reports aligned with SAMHSA guidelines. These assessments track knowledge gains and support MHANYS in building partnerships and expanding outreach. Two hundred individuals have been trained since the start of the project, equipping them with tools to identify and respond to mental health challenges in their communities.
Learn more about the MHFA program at https://mhanys.org/mhfa .
Mental Health Community Partners
Mental Health Community Partners (2022 to Present), Mental Health Association in NYS (MHANYS)In 2022, WRI partnered with the Mental Health Association in New York State (MHANYS) to evaluate the Mental Health Community Partners (MHCP) program, a 90-day support model helping youth and adults transition from behavioral health treatment to community living. Participants are paired with certified Community Partners and their chosen supporters to build family-centered wellness plans, strengthen natural supports, and reduce re-hospitalization.
WRI’s responsibilities include administering pre- and post-program surveys across five project sites, conducting focus groups with Community Partners, and analyzing data to inform continuous improvement. WRI also collects participant and coach testimonials to support program reporting and help MHANYS demonstrate the long-term value of MHCP in building recovery-focused networks. Since the project’s launch, over 220 staff across 80 sites have been trained in MHCP delivery, expanding wellness support across the state.
Learn more about MHCP at https://mhcommunitypartners.org/ .
CarePathTM Evaluations Program (2022 to Present), Mental Health Association in NYS (MHANYS)Since 2022, WRI has worked with MHANYS to evaluate CarePath™, a non-clinical wellness support program for individuals in recovery and their families or chosen supporters. Through a five-step action plan led by certified CarePath™ Coaches, participants co-create a shared mindset around wellness, mindfulness, and long-term recovery.
WRI supports the initiative by designing and analyzing pre- and post-participation surveys, collecting coach testimonials, and providing consultation to ensure meaningful, data-driven evaluation practices. These efforts help track outcomes, amplify community voices, and support the expansion and sustainability of the CarePath™ model. As of 2023, 119 staff members across New York State have been trained to implement CarePath™, bringing practical recovery tools into homes, schools, and service settings.
Learn more about CarePathTM https://mhanys.org/carepath .
School Mental Health Training Evaluation
School Mental Health Resource and Training Center Evaluation (2018 to Present), Mental Health Association in NYS (MHANYS)Since 2018, WRI has partnered with the Mental Health Association in New York State (MHANYS) to evaluate the School Mental Health Resource and Training Center, a statewide initiative supporting K-12 schools in implementing New York’s mental health education mandate. This multi-phase evaluation project explores how schools utilize MHANYS’ tools and resources, assesses the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 on student and teacher mental health, and identifies what supports are most needed for schools to deliver effective mental health instruction.
WRI’s role includes designing and analyzing surveys, conducting data analysis, and providing continuous feedback to improve program delivery and training effectiveness. Our dedicated staff evaluates approximately 20 MHANYS-led trainings each quarter, using the results to guide data-informed improvements in content, format, and reach. These efforts have supported thousands of educators and school staff in building stronger, more responsive mental health supports across New York State.
Learn more about the Resource and Training Center at https://www.mentalhealthednys.org/ .
Statewide Court System Implicit Bias Training Program
Statewide Court System Implicit Bias Training Program Needs Assessment and Evaluation (2020 to 2022), Casey Family Programs and the New York State Unified Court System (UCS)WRI supports UCS’s goal of comprehensive, standardized training and resources to all court employees, to promote a justice system free from bias. Supported by grants from Casey Family Programs and the UCS Office for Justice Initiatives, WRI provided results of interviews with key stakeholders both in New York and around the country to inform the development of a statewide, mandatory training on implicit bias. Working with the Perception Institute, Casey, and UCS, WRI developed and analyzed a survey of all court employees to establish a baseline of knowledge and experience.
Chafee Funding Outreach and Impact
Chafee Funding Outreach and Impact (2021 to 2023), New York State Office of Children and Families (OCFS) OCFS contracted with WRI to assess the impact of awards given to older youth in or formerly in foster care through a program funded by the federal John H. Chafee Foster Care program. WRI hired youth consultant interviewers who themselves had lived experience with foster care, and trained and supported them in trauma-informed approaches. Consultants contacted a random sample of applicants via phone and online surveys. Data received will assist the state in identifying how Chafee funds benefited youth and will help to identify areas of ongoing need and opportunities for support.
Impact of Victim of Crimes Act Grant
Victim of Crimes Act Grant Deliverables Evaluation (2020 to Present), Court Appointed Special Advocates of NYS (CASANYS)WRI provides evaluation support to CASANYS in assessing the delivery and impact of their grant from the NYS Office of Victim Services through the federal Victims of Crime Act. WRI has also assisted CASANYS in creating a visual story of their data through publications and infographics.
