Youth Advocate Programs, Inc: Strengthening Communities, One Biography at a Time

Abstract

The panel will cover topics outlined in the paper ‘Adaptation of an Evidence-Based Model by Context and Culture: A Case Study of the US-Based YAPWrap® Services Model.’ Understanding the successes and challenges in adapting evidence-based interventions in new contexts is growing in interest by both researchers and practitioners (Wiltsey-Stirman C Baumann, 2019). In this study, we use The Frame, an expanded template for reporting adaptations (Stirman, Baumann C Miller, 2019) to study the adaptation of the US-based YAPWrap® services model of Youth Advocate Programs, Inc. (YAP*) for high-risk young people in US and Global contexts. Using multi-method data collection strategies, we take a retrospective look describing aspects of the core model that were adapted; how they were adapted; the reasons for the adaptation and the impacts of adaptations on model fidelity. Findings reveal the importance of a core set of unifying model values and principles that help guide model adaptations and serve as fidelity protective factors.

Panelists share the YAP story with its origins in youth criminal justice in 1975 in the US then adapted to an Irish context working with young people in the child protection sector for the past 24 years. Panelists introduce what weaves the YAP global community together: YAP affiliates around the world working effectively by empowering youth to have a voice and choice in their care and the academic and practical learnings that strengthen communities, one biography at a time.