Program Evaluation for the International Rescue Committee, Tucson, Center for Well-Being

This evaluation contract is now in its 3rd and final year in 2012.  The Center for Well- Beings goal is to provide behavioral health providers with a more comprehensive view of refugee mental health issues, and identify trends within cultural groups and genders. This information will be used to revise assessment tools used to screen refugees and inform referral protocols. Core activities include, but are not limited to the following: 1. Baseline Assessment: Compile baseline information regarding the types and prevalence of mental health issues presented by various refugee groups, including Iraqi, Burmese, Bhutanese, Somali and Burundians. This will be accomplished by creating a questionnaire and surveying service providers. 2. Focus Groups: The compiled baseline information will be augmented by gathering information on the cultural perspectives of refugee groups about the causes of mental health issues and their appropriate treatment. Refugee perspectives will be ascertained by holding small focus groups and interviewing the In-Home Well-Being Promoters. 3. Impact Measurement: Develop a pre- and post-test model to determine Refugee Well Being Project participants knowledge of key concepts and information delivered through in-home instruction; Develop a survey to determine Well-Being Project participants confidence regarding advocacy for themselves and others.