IN 2021, TEXAS INSTITUTE FOR CHILD & FAMILY WELLBEING AT UT BEGAN RESEARCH ON THE IMPACT OF NATIONAL ANGELS' PROGRAMS

After years of receiving anecdotal feedback attesting to the effectiveness of our programming, TXICFW is conducting a rigorous program evaluation to identify the core program components that can be replicated in other areas. The hope is that we can use these findings to expand trauma-informed services to the foster care community, build evidence of service effectiveness, and ensure that children, youth, and families are supported in achieving their goals.

NATIONAL ANGELS PROCESS EVALUATION | TXICFW MAJOR FINDINGS

Programming meets important needs.
National Angels programs are meeting immediate needs and providing long-term support for children, youth, and families that is not offered through traditional service models. Volunteers matched with caregivers through National Angels programming provide important tangible and emotional supports, which reduces caregiver stress and improves retention.

Programming establishes relational permanence.
Volunteers are able to form genuine and authentic relationships with caregivers and youth, which leads to relational permanence. National Angels volunteers remain committed to families and youth and often stay connected with them after their volunteer period has ended.

Programming promotes normalcy for children & youth in care.
National Angels programming creates normalcy opportunities for youth in foster care, which promotes healthy social development and well-being. Children and youth in foster care exhibit improved confidence, behavior, and relationships with others during their participation in both the Love Box program and Dare to Dream program.

Programming generates social capital.
Social capital is the culmination of strong relationships that provide tangible and emotional support, guidance, and companionship in times of need. The social capital generated through National Angels programming can help reduce hardships experienced by children and families by providing relationship-based resources to navigate challenges.
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"It was less of the materialistic things. It was more of [National Angels] just pouring into me with their love... and the situation I was in with my family showing me who they were and wanting to kick me out... and I was pregnant. It was just a lot. [National Angels] were there for me... during my pregnancy, praying for me, supporting me. And then [saying] whatever we do help you with, we wanna make sure it's going to be something that's gonna impact your life forever."

- Youth formerly in foster care
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