AROUND THE CENTER
Workshop to be Presented about Finding and Using an Evaluation Consultant
The Mandel Center for Nonprofit Organizations and the Ohio Program Evaluators' Group are presenting a workshop, Finding and Using an Evaluation Consultant: Strategies for Successful Partnerships, on Friday, January 20, 2006 from 8:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at the Myers University Club.
Nowadays, nearly every grant requires an evaluation, and each year evaluation requirements grow more complex and costly. Designed for executive directors and program managers, this workshop will introduce the key concepts of program evaluation and how to work with an evaluation consultant to improve program effectiveness and increase program funding.
The morning will begin with presentations by Rob Fischer and Judy Simpson, followed by a panel of funders and program managers who will offer their differing perspectives based upon their extensive experience of working with evaluators.
The following questions will be addressed:
- What is the purpose of the evaluation?
- What can be expected to be gained (and not gained) through program evaluation?
- How much time and resources are required for program evaluation?
- What should be considered in selecting a competent evaluator?
- Where should an evaluation start given the constant flux in programs?
- How will be findings be interpreted and how can feedback be integrated into the product/program?
- How can an evaluator really come to know a program and build trust with program staff?
- How can organizations on a limited budget get a quality evaluation?
Rob Fischer is Research and Associate Professor at the Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences where he also serves as Associate Director for Policy & Evaluation, Center on Urban Poverty & Social Change. Rob is President of the Ohio Program Evaluators' Group.
Judy Simpson is Director, Strategic Planning, Government Relations and Information Technology at United Way of Greater Cleveland. Prior to her position at United Way, she served as principal of TRANS.FORM, a for-profit consulting firm specializing in program evaluation and applied research for government, philanthropy, and the nonprofit sector.
The cost is $40.00 per participant. Mandel Center students and alumni may register for $30.00.
