Measuring what really matters; Moving from ‘numbers served’ to meaningful measures of success.
To help us move away from simply counting units, we need the tools to measure how many youth get to where they are supposed to be going - tools that human beings may actually want to use in the quest to serve clients as they truly want and need across agency and system lines.
About Ben
Starting his career in front-line social work, Ben Berres now spends his days launching new initiatives and collaborating with community stakeholders. Ben is the Director of Strategic Initiatives at Partners for Our Children (POC), a public-private partnership based at the University of Washington School of Social Work in Seattle. He has worked in legislative advocacy, policy analysis, and policy implementation, and his current focus is on helping communities that serve children, youth, and families (including service providers, clients, public agencies, and funders) work toward common outcome-oriented goals. In that capacity, Ben is master matchmaker -- matching social service providers with tools and technology that optimizes their work.
About Connection
Connection isn’t just an event, it’s an experience. Each year the Connection event brings together thought leaders from the youth service field to make unexpected connections that break through the status quo. A refreshing line up of brilliant speakers challenge practice-as-usual and provide participants with the opportunity to learn about and discuss key issues in a relaxed, creative atmosphere. Our innovative format means that you don’t just listen to thought-provoking presentations and fresh ideas, you have the chance to discuss and build upon them. Our broad, multi-sector network means that you can expect the opportunity to talk with familiar colleagues, reconnect where you may have lost touch, and get connected with those outside your network. Even our nontraditional space provides inspiration to move, think, and speak freely. Think those of us in youth programs should start counting what really counts? Share this with your friends.
