A long time ago, I learned that rice and beans together make a complete protein. They’re simple, nourishing, and affordable. I’ve leaned on that combo during seasons in my life when money was tight, and it always stuck with me as a reminder that some basic things, when paired well, can be sustaining.
I’ve come to think about evaluation and fund development in the same way.
When I was a grant writer, I had many conversations with organizational leaders who wanted to say something powerful about their organization’s impact—but didn’t have anything specific to point to. Not because the work wasn’t strong—it was. But they didn’t always have the data or stories that could bring that strength to life in a grant report or proposal.
Later, as an evaluation consultant, I started to see what was missing. Evaluation brings in a different lens. It surfaces questions. It helps folks reflect. And when it’s done well, it supports both your program and your fund development teams.
Evaluation isn’t an “extra”. It is an important ingredient that supports your storytelling, your fundraising, and your strategy. Grant writers and evaluators working together can help keep an organization strong and nourished—especially when funds are scarce.
Like rice and beans. A perfect protein.
