Issue #24

Weekly evaluation inspiration for...

Non-profits who DARE

Hi, I'm Allison. I help non-profits use data they already have to improve programs and change the world. I think this internal reflection is equally as important as the external advocacy. It's a skill not everyone has, but there are tools to help!

I spent most of my 20s and early 30s living alone. Like any independent woman, I needed a toolkit to help me with minor household tasks. I felt like I hit the jackpot when I found this lovely flowered toolset at Honest Ed's, and I've kept it with me ever since. The right tools can mean the difference between action and inaction.

My Master of Public Policy program really hammered home that the status quo is a choice (see what I did there?)

So often, we do things because that's how we've always done it. But without stopping to reflect on why we've always done things that way, we're actually opening ourselves up to quite a bit of risk.

This isn't a new sentiment and I'm sure you've heard, and probably even thought, it before. But in real life? It's tricky to reflect on your work in a constructive way that respects the energy and effort that you've put in. How do you hold compassion for the past while dreaming up a new future?

Last week, I attended a great workshop on Holding Space for Constructive Conflict, hosted by the International Association of Facilitators. I learned about a decision support tool called Gradients of Agreement from another participant, Alexis Scranton.

The tool is a helpful way to unearth concern and resistance among team members. It supports action without requiring unanimity or a top-down approach. Because having a clear understanding of concerns only strengthens solutions.

Want a copy of the tool? Hit reply to let me know and I'll send it to you!

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