The Youth Program Quality Intervention (YPQI) is an effective, research-based approach that is the basis for numerous improvement initiatives in the U.S. and abroad. A randomized trial showed that engaging in the Prepare – Assess – Plan – Improve sequence of the YPQI significantly improves the quality of youth programs. This sequence helps youth program leaders to focus on and improve the quality of program offerings they provide for young people.

This technical assistance brief describes the YPQI and how it can be implemented in city, county, state, and national networks. While the YPQI is designed to improve quality in the learning setting–the quality that youth actually experience–the process is anchored by commitments and actions at the policy and organizational levels that create the conditions for quality.