Shifting Power in Evaluation: A Case Study Model for Nonprofit Learning

The panel will explore Coffee & Quality, a learning community that supports nonprofit orgaizations with building and strengthening their data, evaluation, and continuous quality improvement (CQI) capacity. Grounded in participatory and community-driven approaches, Coffee & Quality fosters sustainable data practices by centering the needs of nonprofit organizations and individuals. The panel will highlight the Coffee & Quality Case Study, where a nonprofit collaborates with United Way of Greater Houston and the Kinder Institute for Urban Research to answer key evaluation questions using its own data. This process—beginning with a reflective kickoff and culminating in shared insights—shifts power from external, funder-driven evaluation to nonprofit-led priorities, enhancing internal capacity and providing transferable lessons for the broader nonprofit community. Featuring perspectives from a nonprofit, research-practice partner, and funder, the panel will show how this model strengthens nonprofit sustainability and shared learning. Attendees will gain insights into engaging nonprofits in evaluation efforts.
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