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Our Work

Evidence in Action

Three case examples highlighting our key service areas: independent, third-party evaluation; monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL); and research to policy practice.

Independent, Third-Party Evaluation

Client: SparkForce, The FMA Foundation (formerly Nuts, Bolts & Thingamajigs Foundation).

The challenge

Understand the contribution of SparkForce programs to participants’ experiences and perceptions of manufacturing careers and provide reporting to the Mitsubishi Electric Foundation and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

Our approach

Designed and conducted a series of impact studies examining program experience and relevant outcomes.

The value

Produced three published evaluation reports to inform understanding of the program’s impact and support evidence-informed decisions about manufacturing career exploration.

The product

Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning

Client: Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly, Chicago (LBFE)

The challenge

LBFE needed an evaluation system that supported program learning and reporting without creating unnecessary administrative burdens.

Our approach

Provide technical assistance and training to develop a monitoring, evaluation, and learning system that was tailored to LBFE’s organizational needs and embed monitoring and evaluation into LBFE’s day-to-day work. This included developing a theory of change, advising on improving their monitoring system, developing an evaluation system, articulating a communication plan for evaluation findings, and providing periodic staff training on the evaluation cycle.

The value

LBFE established a more structured approach to monitoring and evaluating their programs and documenting their programs’ impact.

The product

Research & Evidence Synthesis

Client: Greater Chicago Food Depository.

The challenge

A significant portion of public benefits federal funding at the state level is left unused and many people who qualify for benefits are not getting the assistance they need.

Our approach

Develop a series of mixed-methods research studies targeting key stakeholder groups to uncover insights into gaps in services and areas for policy improvements, identify training, resources, and supports needs for service providers, and user test a public benefits clearinghouse website.

The value

Provide a network of public and private organizations and advocacy groups working to connect more eligible people to public benefits services for which they qualify the evidence to advocate for programmatic changes and policy improvements.

The product