Building evaluation capacity in local programs for multisite nutrition education interventions

From 2004-2008, capacity to conduct program evaluation was built among the Network for a Healthy California's 48 largest local partners. Capacity building was done within a framework of Empowerment Evaluation and Utility-Focused evaluation. Tools included: a Scope of Work template, a handbook, a compendium of surveys, an evaluation plan and report template, data entry and analysis templates, teleconferences, workshops, and technical assistance. Over time, more programs completed an evaluation, used a more rigorous design, and reported statistically significant results. Acting as an evaluation guide, rather than a funder, Network staff built rapport with local programs that annually undertake new evaluations.