Phased Internal Evaluations: Driving Equity and Shared Learning with non-profit program teams

In this demonstration, we highlight how a multi-phase internal evaluation approach was used to assess 13 distinct programs at Children’s Council of San Francisco, a large San Francisco nonprofit dedicated to child and family well-being. The wave-based evaluations incorporate shared leadership by working closely with staff to identify metrics, interpret demographic data, and pinpoint program-specific improvements. Participant voices are captured through robust surveys that inform findings on satisfaction, program reach, and equity-focused analyses. Each wave culminates in a dedicated final report, ensuring ongoing learning and cross-team collaboration. In alignment with the theme Engaging Communities, Sharing Leadership, this session shows how the approach fosters responsiveness to each program’s unique priorities. Attendees will gain practical tools for conducting phased, participatory evaluations that uncover actionable insights, strengthen organizational capacity, and advance equitable outcomes in service delivery.