This evaluation provides an analysis of the structure, process and outcomes of the MIRA program implemented in southern Texas during 1998 and 1999. Participant evaluations of MIRA workshops and trainers are included as a separate attachment to this Cluster Story.
Evaluation efforts began in June 1998. The evaluator maintained contact with members of the Texas Cluster on a nearly weekly basis via telephone calls to Steering Committee and team members, e-mail to Steering Committee members, and personal visits throughout the evaluation time period. Several local and state agencies also provided general information.
The evaluator made two personal trips to the Texas Cluster and spent seven days meeting and interviewing participants. The first visit coincided with the Cluster's second workshop, and interviews included those with the Steering Committee, the trainer selection committee, and members of the Community Support Organization and the Policy Support Organization.
The second personal visit focused on the progress of community teams. The evaluator traveled to each of the six communities and interviewed members of all teams.
During the interviews, team members offered candid responses to a set of prepared questions, and they were encouraged to make additional comments and suggestions.
