How can a social service agency determine if it is actually making a difference? Is the agency serving its intended audience? Is programming effective?

Answers to these questions, and others, will be discussed at Evaluation Symposium 2005: Transforming Information into Knowledge and Action, a one-day symposium to be held May 18 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the Radisson Hotel Sharon in West Middlesex, Pa. It is sponsored by Pitt’s Office of Child Development, which is part of the School of Education.

The event is designed to help directors, board members, and staff at human service agencies improve their programs, maximize their staffs’ expertise, and compete for grant money. Participants will receive training in evaluating programs, conducting focus groups and needs assessments, and developing and administering surveys. A full day of training with hands-on activities will be provided, as well as networking opportunities, a comprehensive handbook with resources, and a continental breakfast and lunch. Continuing education credits are available.

For more information or to register for the symposium, call 412-244-7553 or e-mail ocdpep@pitt.edu. To download a copy of the registration form to mail or fax, visit www.education.pitt.edu/ocd/publications/EvaluationSymposium2005.pdf.