The ACTION Council established its research and evaluation program in 2004 for the purpose of providing a full-range of research, evaluation and assessment services to local nonprofits, foundations, public agencies, and other community based organizations.

Imbedded in our philosophy and approach to research and evaluation is the principle that we work in collaboration with community groups, nonprofits, foundations and government agencies, not simply for them. Central to all research and evaluation is that the results determine the impact of the dollars spent and inform the organization’s strategic plan and priorities. We partner with the people actually doing the work to co-create evaluation tools, and provide them with the technical assistance needed to develop meaningful outcomes and conduct evaluations on their own. We are committed to moving agencies toward an understanding of the value of the engaging in such a process, and that the results of their efforts effectively assist them in achieving the desired outcomes for participants. We also assist the agencies in understanding how these tools can be used to leverage funds from other sources. We believe that by actively participating in this process, agencies will also realize its value as a practical management tool for organizational evaluation and change.

The ACTION Council staff experienced in conducting needs assessments and feasibility studies, evaluations of programs and initiatives, survey research, topical research studies, and strategic planning projects utilizing a variety of qualitative and quantitative techniques.

A sample of recent projects and clients is provided below:

• For the Common Good: The Economic Impact of Non-profit
  Organizations in Monterey County
  
• Where do we stand? Child Obesity in Monterey County
• Monterey County Homeless Census and Survey 2005

• First 5 San Benito
• Literacy Campaign for Monterey County
• Differential Response Pilot Implementation
• Pathways to Safety