This paper describes variables related to the successful achievement of goals in New Careers programs. Correlations, path analysis, and case study data were used to develop models of successful program functioning. Both the techniques of study and the findings might be a plicable to other human service projeck. Among factors which appear to agect programmatic 8uccw were:
(a) the use of a system of program planning and self-assessment, (b) the ability of the staff to influence relevant outside agencies and groups informally, and (c) the em loyment of staff or consultants who have capacity in all critical areas. One Raeard was overallocation of resources to the most salient goals and the neglect of less demanding but important goals.
This study describes the use of one potentially useful evaluation methodology which used both case study and statistical techniques (primary path analysis) to isolate factors which contributed to the success and shortcomings of human service programs (Alley, Blanton, & Churgin, 1974). Specifically, eleven New Careers projects were examined in which paraprofessionals in mental-health-related agencies received training and delivered services. Projects attempted to upgrade the skills of paraprofessionals, provide them with an associate (A.A.) or bachelor's degree (B.A.), open new possibilities for career advancement by developing career ladders within agencies and improve service to clients (Alley, Blanton, Churgin, & Grant, 1973b).
METHOD
Goal setting. A primary activity of the evaluation was the comparison of project objectives to actual program performance. The funding agency had set three potentially measurable goals for all projects. They were:
Goal 1. Service Delivery: The improvement of mental health services for neglected population groups. Goal 2. EducationallTraining: The development and institutionalization of an accredited work-based education/training program. Goal 3. Manpower: The development and institutionalization of a manpower development, utilization, and career opportunity system.
In order to measure each of the project goals, a series of observable benchmarks was developed to judge progress towards each of these goals. Twenty rating items were developed for Goal 1, such as "agency, community, and consumer groups have been surveyed to determine unmet service needs" and '(project has defined specific service delivery objectives." Thirteen rating items were isolated for Goal 2, such as "education support service available (tutoring, etc.), A.A. degree is transferable to B.A. degree." The twenty items set for Goal 3 included *This is a condensation of a larger report entitled New Careers Programs in Community Mental Health: Variables and Models, sup orted by NIMH Contract No. N01-MH-2-0143 (OP). Berkeley: Social Action Rasearch Center, 19%. Requests fpr repnnts should be sent to Social Action Rasearch