The Region of Durham’s Family Services team would like to explore ways to show the real dollar impact of social services work. This project aims to quantify the financial impact of services by identifying cost avoidance and savings through social services programs and supports. This approach will strengthen their ability to clearly communicate that social service interventions are not only beneficial for individuals, but also represent smart, cost-effective investments for the broader community.
Host Department: Social Services
Type of Collaboration: An unpaid practicum/placement student hosted at the Region, a small group of students working on a capstone project, or open to collaboration type.
Anticipated Outcome: This project will demonstrate the return on investment (ROI) of social services in a way that is accessible and meaningful to decision-makers.
Deliverables: Literature scan, Data analysis, Systems mapping, Trends analysis, Project management tools
Timeline: 8 months
Desired Start Date: Fall Semester 2026