Phased Evaluation of an OVC-Funded National Resource Center: Assessing VictimConnect’s Implementation and Outcomes for the Victim Service Field

This application proposes a 2.5-year mixed-methods implementation and quasi-experimental outcome evaluation of the VictimConnect Resource Center, which is funded by the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) and is the nation’s only referral helpline serving crime victims through softphone, chat, text, and website resources. The project will assess VictimConnect’s implementation fidelity and compare outcomes between visitors who receive VictimConnect services and visitors who attempt to reach VictimConnect during offline hours (and do not receive services) or who visit the website without accessing informational resources. The project builds on a completed NIJ-funded Phase 1 project (NIJ award # 2018- V3-GX-0003, completed December 2020)

The proposal involves 1) a pilot test of the data collection instruments and data sharing mechanisms to finalize the implementation and outcome evaluation plans; 2) documentation of VictimConnect’s policies, practices, and staff perceptions through review of program materials, staff surveys (N= 250), staff interviews (N= 20), and observations of visitor interactions on VictimConnect; 3) assessment of visitor needs and perceptions of VictimConnect’s services through a multi-wave survey (N= 1,000); and 4) assessment of stakeholder perceptions of VictimConnect through interviews (N= 30). Qualitative and quantitative data analyses will be conducted, including propensity score matching of visitor and comparison group surveys.

The goals of this project include examining whether VictimConnect 1) increases access to victim services; 2) improves delivery of victim services; 3) protects victims’ rights and confidentiality; and 4) strengthens the efficiency of victim services. The results will contribute to knowledge regarding the use and effectiveness of technology-based victim services. CA/NCF
Note: This project contains a research and/or development component, as defined in applicable law," and complies with Part 200 Uniform Requirements - 2 CFR 200.210(a)(14). CA/NCF