An evaluation of Western NY AmeriCorps’ ABLE program (AmeriCorps Builds Lives through Education) found evidence of a strong community impact on the Buffalo region. CGR’s evaluation, which included surveys, focus groups, interviews, site visits, and data analysis, met requirements of the Corporation for National & Community Service. CGR also provided staff with new insights about program operations and impact.

A network of 35 nonprofit Independent Living Centers operate some 50 sites in NY that serve residents with disabilities. NYS has found these nonprofit organizations save taxpayers millions of dollars annually in avoided institutionalized care costs. In 2008, the centers’ statewide association engaged CGR to conduct a needs assessment. Our report identifies underserved geographic areas, significant inequities in operating costs and resources across regions, and barriers that impact some rural, immigrant and racial/ethnic populations. CGR offers recommendations for the future.

NYS is implementing a regional network of 2-1-1 call centers.  Part of a national movement, 2-1-1 will serve as the number to call to access community information and referral services for non-emergency situations. Working collaboratively with regional and state leaders, CGR identified 8 desired outcomes to provide 2-1-1 with a vision of where it is going, and a plan for measuring progress toward each outcome.

The City of Rochester (NY) asked CGR to evaluate 4 programs that receive about $475,000 annually in Community Development Block Grant funding for specific activities designed to improve the quality of life in city neighborhoods, including mortgage default resolution and landlord/tenant services. The evaluation was requested in order to enable city leaders to make more informed decisions about future funding regarding these services.