Examining the link between provider roles and program development: Findings from a process evaluation of a...

This paper presents data from a process/formative evaluation of the Real Alternatives Project (RAP), a community-based substance abuse prevention program for "high-risk" adolescents. The challenge of integrating diverse services for a multi-cultural population required the establishment of an innovative provider role-that of the community case counselor. This paper describes the process of role identity among these case counselors within the context of a developing program. Their role evolved from simple case managers to that of generalists. Serving as case managers, counselors, mentors, role models, and advocates, they met clients' multiple needs. Organizational needs were met through their role in implementing and integrating services and their participation in decision making. The evaluation documented and legitimized this process of role and program evolution. The importance of incorporating process evaluation as an equal partner in program development and implementation is discussed.