Building engagement and collaborating towards a common goal

This presentation will illustrate how an evaluator that already has experience evaluating a program may be in a uniquely qualified position to facilitate the strategic planning process. As evaluators, we learn about a program and its unique context through all phases of evaluation activities. We were in this place when an opportunity to facilitate the program strategic planning process came about. This sparked conversations about how evaluation and strategic planning complement each other. Since we already had knowledge about this program’s context, we were able to develop a facilitation plan that works to build engagement and coordinate collaboration within the coalition and its partners. This coalition collaborates with many champions in their field but is working toward re-engaging previous partners and engaging new partners. To do this, we developed a process that involves using virtual workshops and surveys to gather stories and feedback from partners across the state.