In this Evidence-Based Policy Institute (EBPI) update, we are thrilled to share a number of recent activities and new releases to promote the best possible outcomes for children and families through evidence-based practices and policymaking.

Below you’ll see a partial list of articles, briefs, and other policy-related resources and activities we’ve created, contributed to, or otherwise found useful.
News & Updates

Spotlight Series: Supporting Transgender & Gender Non-Conforming (T/GNC) Youth in Massachusetts
It's our pleasure to unveil the newest entry in our "Spotlight On" series. In this report, we examine experiences which contribute to the health and wellbeing of T/GNC youth, as well as reasons why many of these youth disproportionately experience negative social, physical, and behavioral health outcomes, and explore what can be done at the policy, systems, and practice levels to improve outcomes. 
EBPI Holds Webinar to Explore the Experiences of LGBTQ+ Youth
In April, the EBPI held the first of a new event series to raise awareness, share information, and elevate community voices. Thank you to our incredible host, Liz Page, and guest speakers Shawn Bernier, and Jen and Steve Lenicheck for making our inaugural event, LGBTQ+ Youth in Massachusetts: Are the Kids Really Alright? such a success!



Advocating for Children’s Mental Health During and After COVID-19
With vaccine rollout well underway, it seems the end of the pandemic is within sight. However, we cannot overlook the emotional and psychological impact the last fourteen months have had on each of us; and especially on children and families.
Click here to see the EBPI’s recently published editorial, Dealing With the Mental Health Fallout of COVID-19.

American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 Signed Into Law
For a summary of bill provisions impacting children and families, please click here to see this helpful resource from The Institute for Innovation and Implementation at University of Maryland’s School of Social Work.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month
Join us in voicing our support for all children and families living with a behavioral health concern, and our appreciation for the countless professionals, advocates, and families who work tirelessly to affect change at the policy, systems, and practice levels.
EBPI Resources

The Evidence-Based Policy Institute (EBPI) is committed to providing the community with accurate and cutting-edge resources  on relevant issues that impact children and adolescents. To access our complete collection of articles, policy reports, and briefs covering a range of different issues, please click here.
Current Initiatives

We're excited to share that the EBPI is currently engaged in multiple new initiatives:
Promoting Healthy Students by Addressing Behavioral Health Needs
In partnership with John Crocker, the University of Maryland’s National Center for School Mental Health, and the Children’s Mental Health Campaign, the EBPI is developing a policy report to explore school-based behavioral health in Massachusetts and the ways in which evidence-based approaches can promote positive outcomes for students and families.  

Promoting Positive Outcomes For LGBTQ+ Youth
The EBPI is thrilled to be partnering with the Harvard Kennedy School to explore and address pressing issues impacting LGBTQ+ youth in the Commonwealth. Ultimately this project is intended to alleviate the disproportionate negative outcomes experienced by LGBTQ+ youth and promote the best possible outcomes through cross-system collaboration, and evidence-based policy development and service provision. Judge Baker Children's Center stands as an ally to LGBTQ+ youth and their families.

Supporting Children & Families During COVID-19
The pandemic has exacerbated youth mental health needs worldwide. Now is the time to consider how those needs will be met. We are working to help partners at the policy, systems, and community levels understand the impact of COVID-19 on children and families, so they can provide the best possible care to support children through this challenging time.