What does R mean in NAMES AND NICKNAMES

RAY stands for Results-based Accountability for Youth. It is a framework used to help organizations and communities design, implement, track and improve outcomes in youth development programs.

The Annie E. Casey Foundation developed RAY with the goal of improving the lives of vulnerable children and families.

The benefits include improved service delivery, better program evaluation, clearer goals and objectives, improved data collection, increased collaboration among partner organizations, improved client outcomes and more efficient use of resources.

The RAY approach is designed to provide effective guidance on how decisions should be made when dealing with complex human services issues that need a comprehensive approach such as integrated systems change initiatives or major policy or program reforms. It helps ensure decisions are based on what works and what will most effectively address the needs of children, families and communities over time.

Yes, there are training options available which focus on topics such as results-based planning & accountability, basic data analysis & review processes; effective leadership & management styles; assessment practices; as well as specialized areas such as capacity building & sustainability planning tools for agencies implementing large scale changes.