Abstract:
This mixed-methods exploratory study examines the efficiency of the individual format of the Earn While You Learn (EWYL) program, as utilized by the Pregnancy Support Clinic/Options Now of Valdosta, Georgia. The EWYL program is provided to expectant teens in need of educational and material assistance to equip them for parenthood. This program has not previously been evaluated, an important step due to the widespread national use of this program within the Crisis Pregnancy Center community. Archival data collected over the years 2007-2011 was analyzed for this purpose. The total number of clients included in this study was 4,113, with 296 of them being participants in the EWYL program. Data from the two different formats of the EWYL program (the individual versus the class formats) were statistically analyzed for possible correlations. Data for the variables of time expenditure, cost expenditure, number of EWYL clients and appointments, and number of Abortion-Minded/Abortion-Vulnerable (AM/AV) clients were analyzed for correlations in relationship to the format type. Analysis revealed a positive correlation between format type and time expenditure, a negative correlation between format type and cost expenditure, as well as a positive correlation between format type and number of EWYL appointments. These findings demonstrate that the individual format directly results in an increased number of EWYL appointments as well as a corresponding decrease in cost expenditure. Further analysis also revealed an increase in client retention in relation to the individual format. Recommendations for future studies include the use of survey instruments on EWYL participants before and after participation in the program.