In describing his partnership with the Department of Youth & Community Development, Judd Kessler says that this research agenda is in large part a story about data. In episode three of J-PAL Voices: The Impact and Promise of Summer Jobs in the United States, we look at the role that data play in summer jobs programs. Chekemma Fulmore-Townsend and Julia Breitman discuss how data on program participation have helped them meet racial equity targets in program delivery. Alicia Sasser-Modestino illustrates the variety of data sources used in an impact evaluation of Boston’s summer jobs program. Data help us look at mechanisms and a variety of outcomes, tell a diversity of stories, and ensure that we serve the most vulnerable individuals. 

We would love to hear your comments and feedback at podcasts@povertyactionlab.org. J-PAL Voices is brought to you by J-PAL North America (https://www.povertyactionlab.org/na). Stay in touch via Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/JPAL.NorthAmerica/) and Twitter (https://twitter.com/JPAL_NA).

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Links:

• Knowledge @ Wharton video (webpage) of Judd Kessler speaking about the New York City SYEP evaluation
• Using Administrative Data for Research and Evidence-Based Policy (webpage)