“Now that we have built a strong foundation and have a substantial (and growing!) body of work, we’re honing in on impact. It’s not just about conducting rigorous research; it’s about ensuring that this research is actively used. We are intensifying our efforts to scale our impact operations, recognizing the moral imperative to turn evidence into action.”
- Heather Reynolds
Michael L. Smith Managing Director
When it comes to taking the next right step, replication has been central to LEO’s long term goal since the very beginning. Which is why hosting our first replication convening at the end of last year marked a significant moment. This gathering brought together an esteemed cohort of service providers, funders, and experts, all united in our shared mission taking the successes and innovations that work and spreading them to more communities.
The event marked a significant milestone in our journey towards scaling evidence-based programs, and its success was made possible by the invaluable contributions of our esteemed partners: Uplifting Parents program from Catholic Social Services of Rapid City, Tech Fundamentals program by NPower, and the Padua program at Catholic Charities Fort Worth.
Uplifting Parents: At the heart of Uplifting Parents lies a profound dedication to empowering single parents in the Rapid City, SD area. By providing comprehensive support for education and job training, this program equips single parents with the skills and resources needed to pursue meaningful careers and create brighter futures for their families.
NPower: Through its Tech Fundamentals program, NPower is blazing a trail of opportunity for youth and veterans in the information technology industry. This intensive 23-week crash course not only imparts essential technical skills but also offers ongoing job-placement assistance, ensuring participants have the tools they need to thrive in their new careers.
Padua Program: Catholic Charities Fort Worth’s Padua program stands as a beacon of hope for individuals seeking to break the cycle of poverty. By offering holistic support and guidance, Padua empowers participants to overcome obstacles and achieve lasting economic stability.
During our replication convening, we were honored to welcome a diverse array of participants, including representatives from our partner organizations, funders, and foundation partners. Special thanks to Dave Keil, President of Franworth, whose invaluable insights and expertise plays a pivotal role in guiding our replication efforts. Dave’s commitment to our cause, coupled with his extensive experience in the franchise space, has been instrumental in shaping our approach to scaling evidence-based programs.
The heart of our replication efforts lies in our steadfast belief that rigorous research is the cornerstone of effective poverty alleviation. By collaborating closely with our partner organizations, we strive to translate research findings into actionable solutions that can transform lives and communities. Together, we are forging a path towards greater equity and opportunity for all.
As we look ahead, our focus remains unwavering: to continue supporting our partners in their scaling efforts and to amplify the impact of evidence-based programs nationwide. But scaling is no easy feat—it requires dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. Yet, as we stand on the precipice of this transformative journey, we do so with unwavering optimism and determination.
Read the rest of this edition of Illuminate below!