The Arc of Ocean County | NJ Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired

 The Rutgers University Center for Effective School Practices (CESP) is serving as the external evaluator for the Employment, Development, Guidance, and Engagement (EDGE) program, a partnership between The Arc, Ocean County Chapter, and the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI). The EDGE initiative aims to empower 120 blind and visually impaired students by facilitating their transition into independent living and career development.

 The EDGE program is structured into two distinct phases: EDGE 1.0, which is geared towards high school students and includes a series of Saturday workshops focusing on interpersonal development, college preparation, financial literacy, and more; and EDGE 2.0, designed for college students, offering online classes and dedicated college advisors to help students assimilate into college life in a career-focused manner. Both phases are strengthened by the invaluable insights and guidance from former EDGE enrollees who now serve as staff and mentors, providing a unique perspective to current participants.

 In its evaluative capacity, Rutgers CESP will closely collaborate with the EDGE program's stakeholders to assess its efficacy and impact. This comprehensive evaluation will involve detailed reviews of program implementation, mentor and staff engagements, student achievements, and overall outcomes. CESP is excited about this partnership and is eager to contribute its evaluative expertise to a program making a profound difference in the lives of blind and visually impaired youth.