Chapin Hall

Many public and private human services agencies face a common challenge: figuring out how to use a continuous quality improvement (CQI) approach to not only identify problems but also understand their root causes and test solutions that lead to positive change. Too often, these efforts feel unorganized, reactive, or disconnected from long-term goals—making it difficult to see meaningful progress. 

Chapin Hall has developed a framework to help organizations address these challenges and build a stronger, more sustainable CQI system. Rooted in equity and engagement principles, and informed by current research and federal guidance, the framework provides a clear, structured approach to assessing and improving the core components of an organization’s CQI system. Designed with real-world application in mind, the framework includes a detailed rubric and guiding questions that support: 

• Strategic Alignment – Connecting agency goals to everyday practice 
• Inclusive Engagement – Elevating the voices of families, communities, and partners
• Data-Driven Decision Making – Strengthening systems for smarter, faster insights
• Equity at Every Step – Embedding fairness and accountability throughout the CQI cycle

The framework emphasizes building a strong foundation for continuous learning–empowering staff, leaders, and community partners to work together to improve agency processes and practices that help achieve better results for children and families. Tested with both state and community-based child welfare agencies, the framework and its tools are ideal for agency leaders, CQI practitioners, staff and partners ready to move from compliance to quality improvement and transformation. 

Developed by Chapin Hall’s Claire Kimberly, PhD, and Yolanda Green-Rogers, MSW, this framework is a powerful tool for child welfare agencies and human services organizations working to improve outcomes, make equity a priority, and create meaningful, long-term change. 

Want to know more about this project? Contact Claire Kimberly. 

Download the Framework