PSSP supported the Waterloo-Wellington Service Collaborative to select TIP by guiding Collaborative members through tools from the National Implementation Research Network’s (NIRN’s) Active Implementation Frameworks. The Service Collaborative first identified gaps in services and then examined a number of evidence-based ways to address these service gaps. As a result of this process, the Collaborative selected the TIP Model as an intervention for TAY in both Waterloo Region and Wellington County.

A local Community Implementation Team (CIT) was developed to plan TIP implementation across Waterloo-Wellington. To establish a train-the-trainer approach within the community, the CIT had Stars Training Academy, the organization that provided the TIP model, teach and certify five community-based trainers. Next, several training sessions prepared agency staff to use TIP. In addition, the CIT selected internal TIP agency leads to act as agency champions and to support on-the-ground implementation. PSSP and the CIT also developed evaluation tools to monitor how the model was used within agencies.

The CIT identified 12 agencies to adopt TIP first. It developed agency-based implementation plans in collaboration with these agencies. Early adopter agencies were trained in TIP and began rolling out the model. The CIT watched for challenges during the roll out and developed strategies to ensure ongoing communication, networking, and sustainability.

Over ten rounds of TIP training were held in Waterloo-Wellington by five community-based trainers. Agencies across a wide range of sectors took part in this training and then reported implementing the program. Several agencies continue to train new staff, and this training is being provided by community-based trainers who recently re-certified. The sustainability of the intervention is fostered by the train-the-trainer approach put in the place by the Service Collaborative.