Season 4, Ep 03: Blueprint for Impact: Developing a Theory of Change

Hey, changemakers! Today, Robbin introduces an invaluable framework to help you organize and realize the social impact you aim to achieve. In this episode of Women Igniting Change, she guides you through a seven-step process called the Theory of Change model, using an organization focused on reducing food insecurity as an example. 

In the links below, you’ll find an accompanying worksheet with various examples of how companies have implemented this model.

Throughout the exercise, you’ll examine the core aspects of your operation and envision your ideal outcomes. You’ll determine the internal changes you want to implement for your beneficiaries, identify the problems and needs your organization will address, and evaluate the resources and activities required. This dynamic framework is designed to evolve with your ongoing research.

Ready to make real change in the world? Let Robbin be your guide as you begin this journey.

Quotes

• “A ‘theory of change’ model helps you, in a snapshot, identify what you’re actually going to achieve. So, it can be seen as both a process—which it is, it’s a seven-step process—and also a product. So, it’s kind of like a road map that helps you articulate the changes you want to make in the world and how you plan to achieve it.” (0:54 | Robbin Jorgensen) 
• “It links your activities to your outcomes and makes it really clear how and why your program will be effective.” (1:14 | Robbin Jorgensen)
• “It’s so crucial to create a theory of change model to begin with when you want to affect any type of social change in the world. It tells a common story. This ensures that everyone involved in your social impact understands the big picture and where their individual efforts fit in. And it also brings together really diverse perspectives.” (2:31 | Robbin Jorgensen)