Theories of Change
A TOC ends with these two key elements
Our outcomes, Our Impact
How many common outcomes have been synthesized from all your work
Name one common type of measurement tool used in social services programs.
Survey, questionnaire, interview, observation
The more you take from me, the bigger I get. What am I?
A hole
Name one risk of having outcomes that are too broad in a TOC.
Hard to measure, lack of accountability, too vague to guide practice
_______ developed the Common Themes Outcomes Document
Dr. Warren
If a program uses a survey but clients often skip questions, what could be the problem?
The tool may be too long, confusing, or not relevant; it needs redesign or better instructions
I’m tall when I’m young, and short when I’m old. What am I?
A Candle
If two programs share similar long-term outcomes, why might their TOCs still look different?
Indicators might still differ
Name one benefit of identifying common outcomes across all programs
Shared language, easier reporting, funder alignment, cross-program learning
Why is it important to choose a tool that fits your program’s objectives?
To ensure the data collected is relevant and accurately reflects program outcomes
I have cities but no houses, forests but no trees, and rivers but no water. What am I?
A map
What’s one way to check if your TOC aligns with PLEA’s organizational TOC
Trace each program outcome back to at least one of PLEA’s common outcomes
What risk might PLEA face if it only reported on program-specific outcomes and ignored common outcomes?
Fragmented reporting, weaker funder confidence, missed opportunity to show collective impact
Why is it important to collect baseline data before a program begins?
To measure change over time and demonstrate program effectiveness.
I’m always running, but I never walk. I have a bed, but I never sleep. What am I?
A River
Why is mastering TOC not just about accreditation, but about leadership credibility at PLEA?
Because it shows managers can articulate vision, justify impact, and inspire confidence in funders, staff, and the community.
Imagine PLEA wants to advocate for policy change. How do common outcomes strengthen their case?
They provide measurable, comparable evidence across programs showing systemic impact, which supports advocacy efforts.
How can measurement tools help identify inequities or gaps in program delivery?
By highlighting differences in outcomes across populations, allowing targeted interventions to address disparities.
I have keys but no locks. I have space but no room. You can enter but can’t go outside. What am I?
A keyboard