- Introduction and Purpose: The event is the third installment of the “Beyond the Gift Card” Community Conversation Series by Healthy Communities Coalition (HCC), aimed at bridging the gap between communities and research. The session is led by Ede Taylor-Crittle, the executive director, and moderated by Gerpha Gerlin, a graduate student from Northwestern University.
- Guest Speakers: The session features Dr. Rebecca Johnson, a freelance researcher specializing in research partnership and facilitation, and Dr. Crystal Jackson, a senior research scientist at the Global Nonprofit Education Development Center and founder of Good Human. They share insights on the distinctions and intersections between research and evaluation.
- Research and Evaluation: The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the practical applications of research and evaluation in community and faith-based organizations. Evaluation focuses on the effectiveness of programs and interventions, while research aims to generate new knowledge.
- Evaluation Methods: Various types of evaluation were discussed, such as impact evaluation and performance evaluation. Dr. Jackson and Dr. Johnson highlighted the importance of having short-term, mid-term, and long-term outcomes to measure success and make necessary adjustments.
- Capacity Building and Impact: The conversation stressed the importance of community-based organizations conducting their own research and evaluations to build capacity, improve programs, and demonstrate impact to stakeholders and funders. The ultimate goal is to elevate minoritized community voices and ensure they are active participants in the research process.
