ROMA provides a framework for helping agencies transition from current reporting methods to outcome measurement, while allowing for flexibility in implementation. It represents a shift from headcount reporting to measuring the actual impact of programs on individuals and families. ROMA is a different way of thinking about the work of Community Action Agencies and focuses the efforts of agencies on making concrete improvements in people's lives. ROMA is not designed to create extra paperwork for agencies or burden already overworked staff with additional responsibilities, rather it is designed to assist agencies in competing for public and private dollars and assessing the effectiveness of new and current programs in addressing issues of poverty. ROMA Goal 1- Low income people become more self sufficient.
People become more responsible for their lives and less dependent on subsidized programs.
The conditions in which low-income people live are improved. This goal identifies that CSBG funded programs are to be used to improve the communities in which people live. Goal 3- Low income people own a stake in their community. This goal distinguishes what community action agencies do differently from other human service organizations. Prior to ROMA, agencies reported on numbers of clients served, and services delivered.