Matthew Claps serves as a Principal Technical Assistance Consultant within the Youth, Family, and Community Development program at the American Institutes for Research (AIR), where he leverages his extensive expertise to enhance human services delivery. With a robust background in child welfare, developmental disabilities, special...
Matthew Claps serves as a Principal Technical Assistance Consultant within the Youth, Family, and Community Development program at the American Institutes for Research (AIR), where he leverages his extensive expertise to enhance human services delivery. With a robust background in child welfare, developmental disabilities, special education, behavioral health, and juvenile justice systems, Matthew is uniquely positioned to drive impactful change across diverse sectors. His role involves not only providing training and technical assistance but also acting as a subject matter expert, ensuring that best practices are implemented effectively to improve client outcomes.
In his current position, Matthew leads key projects aimed at fostering collaboration among stakeholders, enhancing program development, and promoting evidence-based practices. His skills in facilitation and consensus building are instrumental in creating inclusive environments where diverse perspectives are valued, ultimately leading to more effective solutions in community mental health and youth services. Matthew's commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident in his approach to training, where he emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique needs of various populations.
Through his adept problem-solving abilities and public speaking skills, he engages with a wide array of audiences, from policymakers to frontline practitioners, ensuring that critical insights are shared and translated into actionable strategies. As a seasoned professional in program evaluation, Matthew continuously assesses the impact of initiatives, driving improvements that align with AIR’s mission to enhance the well-being of families and communities. His work not only reflects his dedication to the field but also contributes significantly to the advancement of human services practices nationwide.