NAPSA R2P Monthly Webinar
Outcomes from Colorado’s Alternate Response Pilot for Tailored APS Intervention
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11TH, 2026
Description:
Senate Bill (SB) 21-118 authorized an Alternative Response (AR) pilot within the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS), Adult Protective Services (APS). This pilot creates a dual-track model for tailoring APS response to risk level. Allegations of low-risk mistreatment and self-neglect are tracked to AR and higher-risk allegations are tracked to Traditional Response. The Colorado Evaluation and Action Lab at the University of Denver serves as the independent evaluator for the legislatively required outcomes study. The goal of the study was to understand the effectiveness of AR and inform the future of this practice model. This webinar will review the evidence building approach for AR and present select reach, implementation, and impact outcomes for a 2-year study period (January 2023 through December 2024). Participants will discuss ways to translate AR pilot learnings into implementation and policy action in their locale, to advance best practices in APS through a data-informed lens.
Guests:
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Courtney L. Everson, PhD, is the Senior Project Director of the Colorado Evaluation and Action Lab at the University of Denver. The Colorado Lab is the state’s research and policy lab supporting all three branches of government in unlocking data-informed solutions that improve lives. With fifteen years of experience in research, community engagement, and leadership in health and human services, Dr. Everson leverages the principles of collaboration, equity, and interdisciplinary science to advance evidence-based decision making and strategic learning. As a mixed methodologist, Dr. Everson leads much of the Colorado Lab’s research in public health, prevention sciences, and family strengthening across the life course. Dr. Everson is the principal investigator for the Alternative Response pilot outcomes evaluation. Dr. Everson holds a PhD in applied medical anthropology with doctoral-level concentrations in public health and women, gender, and sexuality studies.
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Stefanie Woodard is the State Director of Colorado’s APS Program, in partnership with 60 county APS programs. She is committed to continual learning and system improvement, utilizing her experience in leadership, program development, quality improvement, and policymaking to guide collaborative practice in Colorado. With over 18 years of experience in at-risk populations both in the APS field and in I/DD services, Stefanie has experience overseeing investigations, complaints, workforce development, and program evaluation initiatives. Stefanie is passionate about advocacy to support positive outcomes for APS clients. She believes that leading with empathy and humanity is crucial to building genuine professional partnerships and supporting meaningful systemic changes. Stefanie holds a BA in Psychology and a Master’s in Public Administration, in addition to a Change Management certification.
