Позитивные изменения. Том 3, № 4 (2023). Positive changes. Volume 3, Issue 4(2023)

“I strongly advocate for evidence-based philanthropy, and I am glad to witness our sector finally embracing rigorous self-assessment. Today, it is inconceivable for any reputable charitable foundation to abstain from evaluating its own operations. It serves as a hallmark of a well-established, mature organization. At Our Children Foundation, we embarked on the path of evidence-based philanthropy and the incorporation of evidence-based approaches quite some time ago. We have established an entire methodology department that diligently focuses on monitoring the outcomes of our programs. We strive to integrate the assessment findings into our projects. This is a constant, cyclical process: we take a look, analyze what worked or did not, repeat it from the start, introduce new approaches and technologies, see how it changes the outcome and then move on. Understandably, evaluation is not a task that can be approached in a piecemeal manner; it is a process that demands both time and resources. However, the resulting impact is exceedingly positive, serving as a testament to an organization’s dedication to continually enhancing its effectiveness,” remarks Natalia Petrova, Director of Our Children Foundation.

“BEST REGIONAL–LEVEL SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PROGRAM” CATEGORY

The award in this category has found its home in the Polar Region, specifically, in the Our Norilsk Endowment Fund, for its pioneering implementation of a social investment evaluation model that takes into account its contribution to regional development.[62] The Fund’s mission is to propel the social advancement of Norilsk city and the Taimyr Dolgano-Nenets Municipal District. Its primary goal is to facilitate longterm regional investments and provide financial support to non-profit initiatives focusing on education, healthcare, culture, and sports, amongst other socially significant areas.

“In 2023, it was imperative for us to develop our own evaluation model to use in respect of every project supported by the Fund. The model needed to be tailored meticulously to align with our organization’s objectives, given our distinct priority areas for support. Our aim was to devise a versatile solution that could be universally applied across diverse project types. This was no small feat, particularly considering the existence of projects where isolating the economic component and measuring social impacts prove to be formidable challenges. Nonetheless, we rose to the occasion,” says Anna Makukha, Director of Our Norilsk Endowment Fund.

The Fund aspires to serve as an exemplar for other grant-giving entities, irrespective of whether they are endowment funds or major corporations engaged in corporate social responsibility programs. “The incorporation of an evaluation model into their programs represents a positive trend that promises to revolutionize approaches to social project development, and we are delighted to be at its forefront,” adds Anna Makukha.

Over the past few years, the realm of social impact assessment has transcended the confines of a highly specialized professional enclave. Today, we bear witness to the fruits of initial endeavors that stood as isolated cases two decades ago but have now proliferated into a multitude of domains. The laureates of this award encompass companies, NGOs, and specialists who implemented innovative approaches, set new benchmarks, refined methodologies, and cultivated communities of expertise. They are collectively driven by the pursuit of answers to questions regarding the optimal utilization of available resources, the consequences of our actions, and the potential for alternative strategies. Their focus is squarely on accomplishments that contribute to the greater good.

“Despite its seriousness and scientific approach, our award celebrates beauty. This is the beauty of projects, which becomes evident when we move beyond the dry statistics of events and participants to recognize the stories of transformation — what we refer to as ’impact’,” said Natalia Gladkikh, editor-in-chief of the journal. “For the second consecutive year, we have been honoring those who help organizations fully embrace the beauty within their work. Through our award, our aim is not only to acknowledge individuals and teams but also to inspire new projects to create positive changes in the world. Because impact is not just about today; it’s mostly about shaping a better future.”

Our team’s heartfelt congratulations extend to the awardees, and we express our gratitude to our partners: Wowhouse Branding Agency, the Gladway Foundation for the Development of Media Projects and Social Programs, the Different Beans Inclusive Café, and the This Is Us Community Theater. For additional information about the award and a visual chronicle of the event, please visit the website https://www.impactawards.ru/.