Through evaluation consulting and coaching, evaluation studies, and basic research in the field, JESNA’s Berman Center for Research and Evaluation strives to meet the existing and emerging evaluation needs of our North American clients, working primarily in the Jewish educational and communal sectors. Since it was established in 1992, the Berman Center has conducted more than 200 program evaluations, descriptive research projects, needs assessment studies, and other evaluation projects for four principal client groups:

• Private and community foundations and other philanthropists

• National and local “stand-alone” program providers

• Central agencies for Jewish education

• Jewish community federations

You are Doing the Smart Thing

In today's dynamic economy, reliable results matter. Nonprofit programmers and funders are looking for ways to address accountability, engage in outcomes-based planning, and measure impact. The most effective individuals and organizations take learning and evaluation seriously. Evaluation helps leaders better understand their goals, discern the impact of their philanthropy/programming, and identify ways to assess return on investment. Ideally, funders require it of grantees and program providers apply what they learn to program improvement and professional development.

You are Doing the Right Thing

Thoughtful evaluation means using learnings to improve program effectiveness and to refine outcomes. Formative evaluation can assess program implementation and impact and has the potential to improve performance at any stage in the life of the program. Funders and program providers using formative evaluation have the power to make mid-course corrections to ensure programs and services are meeting their goals and the community's needs. Summative evaluation determines how and to what extent programs have reached their desired outcomes. Leaders use summative evaluation to uncover lessons that they can apply to new planning and programming, determine how best to replicate or adapt a program, and assess the best use of funding for programs. Incorporating regular, systematic evaluation makes sure that "more good is done well."

You are Doing the Strategic Thing

Evaluation should be essential, not optional. Deliberate reflection and evaluation of programs and business models are standard in the corporate world. By adapting tested practices for the unique needs of the nonprofit sector, funders and program providers are taking the lead in professionalizing the work of the sector and raising the bar for excellence. Thoughtful inquiry and strategic application of what we learn is critical for reflective practitioners who care about effective program implementation and impact among their target audiences. 


To learn more about how JESNA's Berman Center for Research and Evaluation can help you maximize the effectiveness of your Jewish educational and communal service initiatives, contact Dr. Renae Cohen, Director of the Berman Center, at 212-284-6516 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .