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Purpose of OPRE
The Office of Planning, Research & Evaluation (OPRE) serves as principal advisor to the Assistant Secretary for Children and Families (AS/ACF) on increasing the effectiveness and efficiency of programs designed to improve the economic and social well-being of children and families.OPRE coordinates ACF programs on:
- strategic planning aimed at measurable results;
- measuring performance;
- research and evaluation methodologies;
- demonstration testing and model development;
- statistical, policy and program analyses;
- synthesizing and disseminating research and demonstration findings; and
- applying emerging technologies to increase the effectiveness of programs and service delivery.
OPRE manages the section 1110 and section 1115 social service research programs. This includes: setting priorities; reviewing and funding applications for research and evaluation projects; managing and coordinating major cross-cutting studies and special initiatives; and collaborating with states, communities, foundations, professional organizations and others to promote child development, family focused services, parental responsibility, employment, and economic independence. OPRE provides coordination and leadership in ACF-wide efforts to implement the Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA).
OPRE is also responsible for all aspects of the collection, compilation, analysis, and dissemination of data on selected ACF programs. This includes: developing regulations to implement data collection requirements; designing and implementing systems for the collection and analysis of data; developing and maintaining statistical protocols and manuals for data collection and providing technical assistance in the use of these materials; and providing leadership and coordination with other ACF and DHHS offices and external organizations in the dissemination of these data for policy and research purposes.
OPRE, headed by a Director, consists of three divisions: Economic Independence (DEI); Child and Family Development (DCFD); and Data Collection and Analysis (DDCA).