About Us

Mission

The Center for Human Services Research (CHSR) is dedicated to developing empirically-based knowledge to improve the design and delivery of services that address social issues and meet community needs. We conduct evaluation research and design information systems to inform policymakers and service providers across a broad spectrum of fields. CHSR values integrity in its research and is dedicated to providing timely, accurate, and non-partisan information to guide best practice in the human services.

History

The Center for Human Services Research (CHSR) was established in 1991 by the Director of the Bureau of Research of the New York State Department of Social Services (DSS). DSS was seeking a partner to handle the increased demand for departmental research. CHSR was initially housed at the University’s Professional Development Program (PDP) but later became affiliated with the School of Social Welfare as the research portfolio grew and was aligned with the School’s priorities and expertise.

Since that time, CHSR has grown substantially. This growth is evidenced in the following ways:

• Expanded Research Portfolio: Initially CHSR conducted research in the areas of interest to the Department of Social Services: child welfare and temporary assistance. Project areas now include children and family services, children's mental health, education and early childhood development, health behavior and services, and youth development and juvenile justice.

• Substantial Infrastructure: CHSR now supports an interdisciplinary team of over 25 staff, faculty, and graduate students with sophisticated research, technical, and management skills.

• Broadened Internal and External Partnerships: CHSR has developed significant partnerships with a number of University entities and with various state and local government offices and service providers throughout New York State.

Partner Links

• Addictions Care Center of Albany, Inc.
• Adirondack Rural Health Network
• Albany County Department for Children, Youth and Families
• Albany Family Education Alliance
• Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region
• City School District of Albany
• Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes
• Families Together of New York State
• Health Research Inc.
• New York Conference of Local Mental Hygiene Directors  
• New York State AmeriCorps
• New York State Department of Health
• New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence
• New York State Office of Children and Family Services
• New York State Public Health Association
• Northeast Parent and Child Society
• Nutrition Consortium of New York State
• Orange County System of Care
• Parsons Child and Family Center
• Prevent Child Abuse New Jersey
• Prevent Child Abuse New York
• U.S. Department of Education
• U.S. Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention
• U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
• University at Albany, State University of New York - School of Social Welfare
• Veteran’s Administration Health Care Upstate New York
• WMHT Educational Telecommunications

Employment & Training Opportunities

CHSR is an equal opportunity employer. We provide a challenging and rewarding work environment for skilled professionals who are dedicated to the importance of evaluation research. We also offer internship and training opportunities for graduate students who seek research and evaluation experience.

Senior Research Support Specialist - January 2013