Empowering Families, Transforming Communities

For over 117 years, BakerRipley has served as a vital resource for families in Houston, providing transformative services like education, workforce programs, and community engagement. As the agency grew, so did the need for a modern, efficient system to manage their expanding operations and better connect with families. Enter GoEngage, a comprehensive Head Start software solution by Cleverex Systems that is helping BakerRipley serve its community.

Challenges with Legacy Systems

BakerRipley’s previous software had significant limitations that made daily operations cumbersome:

• Inefficient Data Management: Staff struggled with a lack of access to critical data and had to manually enter information, including family group entry records for large groups, one parent at a time for things like parenting classes.

• Complex Reporting Processes: Generating reports required creating custom spreadsheets and manual calculations, leading to delays and potential inaccuracies.

• Ineffective Communication Tools: The existing communication system was unreliable, forcing staff to resort to alternative methods to ensure families received critical updates.

Ms. Nelsy Martinez, Senior Family and Community Engagement Coordinator, explained, “With our previous system, family development workers couldn’t access or correct their [PIR] data. It all fell on one person, which was overwhelming. But with GoEngage they have access to the My PIR feature, which allows them to to be able to make corrections.”

"One of the features I truly appreciate is the ability to send broadcast messages to families via email and text—it makes communication so much easier," said Ms. Dionne Johnson, ERSEA Manager. "The way GoEngage allows us to set up caseloads, organize the family directory, and access departmental tabs is incredibly user-friendly. It streamlines our work and keeps everything connected."

Selecting GoEngage: A Thoughtful Decision

When BakerRipley’s previous database contract neared its end about three or four years ago, the agency saw an opportunity to rethink its systems and address ongoing inefficiencies. The procurement team launched a meticulous search, issuing a RFP and evaluating multiple platforms through responses and detailed demos. After careful consideration, GoEngage emerged as the clear winner for its affordability, robust functionality, and alignment with Head Start standards.

“The decision-making process was thorough and intentional,” explained Ms. Martinez. “We were required to go through a formal procurement process, which included bidding and evaluating multiple platforms,” she explained. “During the demo with Angela, we were impressed by the features GoEngage offered. It stood out as the best fit for our program’s needs.”

The Switch to Go Engage

“When we saw GoEngage, it just clicked,” shared Ms. Martinez. “The ability to do group data entry for parenting classes and events completely transformed how we manage those processes. We didn’t have that option before.”

Ms. Johnson, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the software’s seamless reporting capabilities: “The sequence of the application form and the document upload features are so intuitive. It’s made the flow of our work so much easier.”

Mr. Justin Wang, the agency’s Data Support Specialist, joined BakerRipley in 2022, right as the team began implementing GoEngage. “I had the unique opportunity to learn the system from the ground up,” he said. “Right from the start, it was clear that this platform would be a transformative tool for us.”

Transformative Features

GoEngage quickly became integral to BakerRipley’s daily operations. Key features included:

• PIR Integration: The system enabled family development workers to directly access and adjust PIR (Program Information Report) data, streamlining workflows and improving accuracy.

• Group Entry for Events: Staff could now log attendance for large events like parenting classes in seconds, saving hours of work.

• Customizable Reporting: With tools like Data Navigator, staff could create reports tailored to specific needs, eliminating the need for manual calculations.

• Reliable Broadcast Messaging: Email and text notifications kept families informed about closures, events, and resources, enhancing communication efficiency.

“The PIR feature alone has been a huge help,” said Mr. Wang. “Everything is interconnected, and calculations are done automatically, saving us so much time.”

Building Stronger Connections with the Parent Portal

Currently, BakerRipley is preparing to launch the Parent Portal, a key feature of the GoEngage platform designed to provide families with direct access to essential resources and information. Early tests have been promising, with parents expressing enthusiasm for the added convenience.

“We’ve received positive feedback during our initial presentations,” Mr. Wang shared. “Parents are excited, and we’re looking forward to rolling it out fully.”

The portal is also expected to reduce message overlap by consolidating communications into a single, user-friendly platform.

A Parent’s Perspective

"The new Parent Portal makes it so easy to stay informed. I love how everything is in one place!" – A BakerRipley Parent

Results and Looking Ahead

Since adopting GoEngage, BakerRipley has seen measurable improvements:

• Time Savings: Processes like event attendance tracking and reporting are now faster and more efficient.

• Improved Accountability: Real-time data and automated alerts ensure nothing falls through the cracks.

• Enhanced Engagement: Tools like QR codes for pre-application forms have increased accessibility for families, making it easier for them to apply to our program.

When asked if they would recommend GoEngage to others, the team’s response was unanimous. “It’s very competitive and definitely worth the investment,” said Ms. Johnson.

A Partnership Beyond Technology

Beyond the technology, BakerRipley’s success with GoEngage has been bolstered by strong collaboration with the Cleverex team.

“The relationship we’ve built with their team is invaluable,” Ms. Martinez emphasized. “Whenever we need help, they’re just a call or email away. That level of support makes all the difference.”

From troubleshooting to personalized training, Cleverex has worked closely with BakerRipley to ensure the software is tailored to their specific needs.

“If there’s a feature we need or a problem we encounter, the team is always just an email or call away.” Ms. Johnson added, “The personalized training and ongoing assistance have made a big difference. They truly listen to our needs.”

The Bottom Line

With GoEngage, BakerRipley has not only enhanced its operational efficiency but also strengthened its ability to engage families (as part of the Head Start Program Performance Standards, 1302.50 Family engagement) and meet its mission. The platform has proven to be a cost-effective solution that empowers staff, saves time, and improves data accuracy.

“I would absolutely recommend GoEngage to other programs,” said Ms. Johnson. “It’s competitive, adaptable, and worth every penny!”

As BakerRipley continues to evolve, GoEngage remains a cornerstone of their strategy to serve Houston’s families. Ms. Johnson summed it up best: “I just love GoEngage!”

Looking Ahead

As BakerRipley prepares for the full launch of the Parent Portal and continues refining its use of GoEngage, the future looks brighter than ever. The agency’s partnership with Cleverex is a powerful example of how technology, when paired with exceptional support, can transform an agency’s ability to make a difference.

Curious About How GoEngage Can Work for You?

If your program is looking for a cost-effective, intuitive, and comprehensive solution, GoEngage could be the perfect fit. From streamlining data management to improving communication, reporting and monitoring, GoEngage is the solution you’ve been looking for.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

• Schedule a demo and experience the benefits firsthand

• Contact us at sales@GoEngage.app to get started

With GoEngage, BakerRipley isn’t just transforming systems—they’re transforming lives. Imagine what it could do for your program.