Monitoring Initiative
Dear Colleague Letter 17-06
Date: July 18, 2017
Dear Colleague:
I want to take a moment to update you on an important ORR initiative. In March of 2016, ORR announced the launch of the ORR Monitoring Initiative. The purpose of the Monitoring Initiative is to establish a comprehensive system of monitoring for all ORR funded programs with the goal of improving them. ORR formed a working group to lead the efforts under the initiative. Since the launch, ORR has implemented a number of changes in the areas of monitoring tools, staff capacity, and data analysis.
The working group developed new tools for monitors including an updated monitoring report template and new guidelines and checklists for the monitor. These tools provide uniform instructions for planning and carrying out monitoring trips and standardize the type of information collected during the monitoring trip. Additionally, the working group created supplemental materials for specific programs.
ORR increased the capacity of monitoring staff by adding part-time monitors and including monitors who specialize in specific programs areas. ORR provided training to all monitors on monitoring protocols and the new tools.
Along with preparing tools and other materials, the working group analyzes monitoring reports and gathers feedback from monitors in order to identify common issues and best practices. This analysis is ongoing. Based on their analysis, the working group will create recommendations to address common compliance issues and elevate best practices.
As a result of the Monitoring Initiative, ORR has doubled the number of monitoring visits. The increase in the amount and quality of information collected allows the Monitoring Initiative working group to develop more resources for monitors and grantees. All of these improvements are creating a monitoring process that will better strengthen the provision of ORR services.
Sincerely,
E. Scott Lloyd
Office of Refugee Resettlement