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This session is part of the Data and Evaluation Training Series, to view the other sessions:

Session 1: Data Basics
This session –  Session 2: Program Evaluation Basics
Session 3: Theory of Change
Session 4: Program Evaluation Planning

Given limited resources and stretched capacity, data collection procedures and program evaluation strategies at the individual program level often fall short in terms of identifying gaps in service, areas for growth, and program impact. Today, philanthropic giving demands a quantifiable return on investment in exchange for donations and grants. Combining nearly 20 years of experience in designing bereavement-focused evaluation protocols with the power of the CBEM, with philanthropic support provided by the New York Life Foundation and in collaboration with the National Alliance for Children’s Grief (NACG), Judi’s House/JAG Institute offers a series of free trainings to share best practices in data collection and program evaluation. This workshop on Evaluation Basics will provide key information on what evaluation is and how participants can begin evaluating their programs. Presenters will discuss the purpose of evaluation, how it helps organizations in reaching goals, and why it’s important. The workshop will outline the two basic types of evaluation, what questions they answer, and what considerations should be made as organizations begin to evaluate. Presenters will review the core steps in conducting evaluation so participants will walk away with clear next steps for how to integrate evaluation into practice.

Objectives:

By the end of this presentation, participants will be able to:

1. Understand the purpose of program evaluation and why to evaluate
2. Explain the two types of program evaluation (process and outcome)
3. Identify the 5 core steps of implementing evaluation (ask, plan, act, reflect, improve)

Speaker Bios:

Deirdre Erkman is the Evaluation Researcher at Judi’s House/JAG Institute. With over 5 years’ experience applying data analysis to nonprofit programming, Deirdre has a passion for guiding organizations to use data to benefit the people being served. In her role at Judi’s House, she leads the Childhood Bereavement Changemaker expansion, collaborating with organizations across the country to devise data-informed strategies and recommendations to improve decision-making, implementation, process, and outcomes. Deirdre holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and Political Science from Tulane University. She can be reached at deirdree@judishouse.org.

Laura Landry, PhD is the Director of Evaluation and Research at Judis House JAG Institute. She has 12 years experience evaluating community-based programs and large-scale prevention initiatives as well as building the capacity of organizations to utilize data to drive decisions. In her role, Laura oversees the Evaluation and Research Initiative, a core component of the Comprehensive Grief Care Model followed at Judis House JAG Institute. This Initiative focuses on evaluation of our services, research on the impact and course of childhood bereavement, and dissemination of data on the prevalence of childhood bereavement to inform advocates and practitioners working in the field.

Refund/cancellation policy: If you need to cancel your registration, please email info@childrengrieve.org or call (866) 432-1542. Please note that no refunds will be given.

To request accessibility accommodations: ADA accommodations will be made in accordance with the law; please indicate your special needs when you register by sending an email to support@ce-go.com or by calling us at (888) 498-5578.

Attendance policy: To earn CE units for this event, you must attend the entirety of a session, as demonstrated by your signature on the sign-in/out sheet, and complete an online event evaluation.