INVEST IN KIDS

Since 1999 Invest in Kids' (IIK) has partnered with community leaders, care providers, and donors to improve the health and well-being of vulnerable young children and families throughout Colorado. Specifically, we identify, introduce, implement and ensure the long-term success of evidence-based, early childhood, prevention programs. We currently implement Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP) and The Incredible Years (IY), which combined will reach more than 12,000 children and families in 61 Colorado counties this year. With a focus on early interventions demonstrating clear evidence of long-term effectiveness, our founders first chose NFP, which has more than three decades of randomized control trial research showing improved pregnancy outcomes, better child health and development and greater economic self-sufficiency for participating mothers. More than 19,500 Colorado moms have benefited from the program since its inception. Shortly after beginning our intensive community work with NFP, IIK recognized the need in the area of early childhood social and emotional skill development. Studies validated the importance of social and emotional development of young children as a strong predictor of early academic achievement and a more positive life trajectory. The result of a second national program search was the adoption of IY (the subject of this document). IIK has dedicated its efforts towards leveraging limited resources toward improving outcomes for young children and the families that produce the highest possible return on investment (ROI). To do so, IIK bridges the gap between research and practice, allowing communities to provide services with proven effectiveness. What makes us unique is our implementation approach: -First, we identify programs with proven track records or methodologies for success. -Second, we introduce these programs to communities to see where and how they can net the greatest impact. -Third, we implement the programs through partners, in collaboration with community leaders. -Fourth, we ensure each program's success through strict adherence to guidelines and measurement of results. -Finally, we work with key partners and supporters to ensure long-term sustainability. Even with the help of evidence-based interventions, programs cannot achieve desired outcomes for children, families, and communities if they are not well implemented, or well matched to a community's needs and goals. The work of IIK in supporting implementation of IY is informed by implementation science, an emerging field focused on the translation of research findings into policy and practice.