Economic Security

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OMNI conducted an evaluation to determine which indicators of economic mobility, social mobility, and community connections were apparent in the entrepreneurs served, and to receive feedback on programming. To conduct the evaluation, a survey was developed that included questions in the three impact areas of interest: economic mobility, social mobility, and community connection. The feedback from entrepreneurs who completed the evaluation survey suggested that RMMFI is a key resource in the community, offering effective support that leads to key changes in economic mobility, social mobility, and community connection.

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To develop the WAGES evaluation, OMNI co-created an evaluation framework with staff, grantee organizations, and other WFCO vested partners (e.g., WFCO's board). The mixed-methods evaluation sought to: provide an understanding of the quantitative impact of the funding; share the more personal narrative and stories of those impacted by the funding; and better understand the strengths and challenges in bringing together diverse organizations to innovate and work towards a shared goal around advancing women’s economic security. Findings have shed light on effective direct practices and policy solutions that provide comprehensive supports to advance women’s economic security through accessing higher education and finding employment that leads to a livable wage. Evaluation findings were used to inform WFCO's approach to future funding initiatives.

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OMNI helped the LBWF develop a robust system to distribute funds smoothly and adaptively, building a system that can be used across nonprofit partners. We trained staff from nonprofits across the state to become registered Screeners who help applicants navigate eligibility requirements and apply for the grant. This work requires an approach that is rooted in a connection to and understanding of the challenges a community faces, as well as the ability to be responsive to the changing needs of the client based on community experiences and data.

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As Colorado Coalition for the Homeless’ data partner, OMNI manages the data entry, analysis, and reporting of the PIT data. OMNI also provides guidance around instrument design and updates the survey annually to align with HUD standards. In 2021, OMNI developed an online version of the PIT survey to streamline data collection and reduce data entry costs. Data collected from the count is used to inform the distribution of homeless assistance funds and inform policies that prevent and address homelessness.

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The expanded definition was informed by the 2009 Homeless Emergency Assistance and Rapid Transition to Housing (HEARTH) Act with the aim to capture the unique characteristics of individuals experiencing homelessness in Jefferson County. In addition to collecting data about demographics and other characteristics, the survey also assessed gaps and barriers to accessing services. OMNI served as the research partner and developed a survey, strategized about the ideal methodology for collecting data from service providers and via street outreach, analyzed the data, and produced a comprehensive final report.

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As Boulder County’s research partner, OMNI develops and maintains cross-agency partnerships to facilitate data collection and federal reporting and builds capacity and infrastructure related to outcome evaluation measures. In addition, OMNI has conducted qualitative surveys and key informant interviews with program staff to understand program policies and processes, conducted a comparative review of Housing First fidelity assessments to inform program practices, and conducted key informant interviews with landlords and property managers about their experiences renting to individuals served by the grant.

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OMNI provided evaluation training to staff; conducted a literature review on intersections between recovery, homelessness, and women/transgender identities; and led a collaborative process through which staff and organizational leaders developed a framework that articulated pathways of service delivery and a logic model that outlined the process by which TGP partners with women, transgender individuals and their families to move out of crisis towards self-actualized goals.

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OMNI utilized multiple data sources and methods during this project:

• Key Informant Interviews: two community focus groups were conducted, one with community members enrolled in SNAP, and another with community members who were likely to be eligible but were not currently enrolled in SNAP.

• Focus Groups: a community survey was administered to document community members’ perspectives and experiences with Lake County’s food system and SNAP program.

• Community Survey: a document review was conducted to identify “bright spots,” or communities, programs, or initiatives across the state and country that employ innovative approaches to increase SNAP enrollment and/or access to local produce.