The Challenge

Having existed for over two decades and having gone through multiple iterations, GEO leadership have spent the last few years defining their strategic direction. After its finalization, they recognized a need for a strong Theory of Change and a learning and evaluation plan to guide their short and long-term orientation. GEO sought our partnership to assist in the development of these powerful internal tools while staying true to their values around intersectional racial equity.

The Approach

We collaborated closely with GEO staff, members, and stakeholders to develop and design strategy and evaluation tools. We reviewed internal and external-facing documents, conducted learning conversations with the GEO Senior Leadership Team and facilitated meaning making sessions across the organization. Through these research activities and our collaborative sessions with the GEO Knowledge and Learning team, we surfaced themes revealing the theory behind their work. We developed a Theory of Change and tested it with different internal vested groups. After concluding that phase of the project, we reviewed GEO’s existing learning and evaluation activities. We developed a learning and evaluation plan that mapped these activities to outcomes and methodology while being mindful of the goal of capturing transformation as informed by the Theory of Change. We provided guidance on the activities, a survey template, and detailed recommendations for implementation. Hence, through this partnership we provided a comprehensive offering that will help the organization map, assess, and strengthen the implementation of its strategic plan over the coming years.