Assessing Project LAUNCH: Evaluating Protective and Behavioral Outcomes in Early Childhood Development

Presenter(s)

Alegnta Felleke, PhD

Associate Professor and PhD Director
Our Lady of the Lake University
Rebecca Gomez, PhD (she/her/hers)

Associate Professor and Associate Dean for Academic Affairs
Steve Hicks School of Social Work, University of Texas at Austin

This study evaluates the effectiveness of Project LAUNCH, a SAMHSA-funded initiative promoting early childhood well-being. Using a public health framework, we assess changes in protective factors and behavioral concerns across infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Findings highlight significant improvements in protective factors, with mixed behavioral outcomes, informing policy and practice.

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this session, attendees should be able to:

Analyze the impact of Project LAUNCH on protective factors and behavioral outcomes in infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
Evaluate the effectiveness of the public health model and pyramid model in guiding early childhood mental health interventions.
Apply findings to inform policy, practice, and social work education on early childhood resilience and behavioral health strategies.