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791 Chapter 4:Working with families • Section 4: Evaluating progress (07/2026) Evaluating progress Introduction The purpose of evaluating progress is to maintain communication with the participant and to provide the most appropriate services to individuals and families. These services include not only case plans activities, but also referrals to other services. Identifying progress Progress is not identified only through the completion of an activity, but also by changes in the individual’s situation and readiness to move toward their goals. Progress can be identified through: • Contact with the participant and discussion around their own challenges and successes • Review of attendance records • Reports from contracted or community providers • Information gathered in ongoing evaluation and assessments. Oregon Administrative Rule(s) No current OARs apply. Modifying plans When it becomes apparent there is a need to modify the plan, SSP should work in partnership with the participant to make the necessary changes. Changes may include the number of hours for an activity, the activity itself or the support services agreed upon to ensure the participant’s success. Any change in the plan or in support services must be documented. If the change causes a reduction in support services, formal notice is required. Oregon Administrative Rule(s) No current OARs apply. Best practices • Have regular contact scheduled for all participants. • Narrate plan outcomes and modifications in the case record. • Continue to ask open-ended questions, summarizing what you hear from the participant. • Remind the participant that they know what is best for themselves and their family; build a plan to reflect on their own goals. • Expect the participant will share more about themselves as trust increases. • Remember not all paths to self-sufficiency will be linear. Instead, focus on the success of the participant and