Evaluation in the nonprofit sector can be a challenge. Nonprofits typically have fewer staff, a dedication toward delivering services (fulfilling the mission) instead of conducting evaluation, and are typically not trained in evaluation. Yet these same challenges can strengthen evaluation in nonprofits. We are dedicated toward our missions! We want to prove that we are indeed fulfilling our mission and evaluation is how we can do that. We are are versatile and willing to do what is needed to accomplish the mission. Given the right training, nonprofits can tell their story through some basic nonprofit evaluation techniques.

The Nonprofit Evaluation Convening was held on September 22, 2009, with Dr. Tosha Cantrell-Bruce from the Department of Public Administration at University of Illinois at Springfield. Dr. Cantrell-Bruce provided an overview of different evaluation methods. The convening focused on the application of these methods by nonprofits. We discussed how specific nonprofit characteristics such as board governance and volunteerism is related to evaluation. Dr. Cantrell-Bruce has offered to provide more detailed meetings focusing on specific evaluation methods if requested.

The evaluation forum provides an ongoing discussion about content covered in the training. You can also request a copy of the presentation by e-mailing Dr. Cantrell-Bruce at University of Illinois at Springfield.