Research Scientist
michelle.gerrard@wilder.org

Michelle conducts evaluations for a number of programs, with a particular focus on services for high-risk children and families. She returned to Wilder Research in 2000, having worked here previously from 1986 to 1993 as a survey interviewer, research assistant and then as a coordinator for the statewide homelessness survey.

Michelle has also worked as a risk and prevention counselor for emotionally disturbed and other at-risk youth, and as the evaluator for a federal demonstration project related to children's mental health services in rural Minnesota. Michelle has a master's degree in Education, with a focus on risk and prevention, from Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Recent projects

• Evaluation of The Homecoming Project, a federally funded project designed to connect youth under state guardianship with permanent homes
• Evaluation of Ramsey County Mothers First, a project that provides case management and home visiting services to chemically dependent women with children
• Minneapolis MAD DADS, a community street patrol designed to reduce crime
• Path REACH, a federally funded project to increase adoptions by rural and American Indian families in Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin

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