Since 2002, we’ve been investing in programs that promise real social change in our community– enhancing economic independence, leadership skills, and resources of women and girls. We’ve invested $1 million in 103 root-cause programs that create long-term solutions.

Programs like CRIS, which helps helps immigrant women understand their rights under the Violence Against Women Act of 1994, so they may leave abusive relationships, still remain in the United States and retain custody of their children.

Empowering women like Kristy, who graduated from the Getting Ahead program and said “I am a 32-year-old single mom who lives in poverty and who has struggled most of my life, depending solely on public assistance and never motivated to want more. Until now.  The Getting Ahead program gave me a lot. I became very motivated to change my life.”

Social change goes beyond providing direct service and creates change in the larger system of how we live, work and learn.

But what evidence do we have that an organization’s program has been successful? That it’s really making lasting, systemic change? How do we measure social change?

We believe the evidence comes in the form of a shift. Five shifts, actually.

A Shift in Definition. The issue is defined differently in the community or larger society.

A Shift in Behavior. People behave differently the community.

A Shift in Critical Mass or Engagement. People in the community are more engaged in the issue.

A Shift in Policy. Specific organizational, local, regional, state, or national policy has changed.

And sometimes a Shift can simply mean holding the line. Earlier progress made on the issue has been maintained in the face of opposition.