How did United Way of Americas outcome measurement program get started?
Prior to 1995, a number of United Ways across the country had recognized the value of outcome measurement and its long-range importance for United Ways and the agencies they fund. These organizations had begun outcome measurement programs and encouraged United Way of America to provide resources and national leadership on the issue. In April 1995, UWA established an internal team charged to help United Ways document and improve their impact on community problems by developing and supporting approaches to measuring the outcomes of United Ways’ investment in health and human services. Development of UWA’s outcome measurement program was advised by a 30-member national task force whose membership includes representatives of United Ways, human service organizations, foundations, corporations, public agencies, and research institutions. In August 1996, with The Urban Institute as its technical consultant, UWA published Measuring Program Outcomes: A Practical Approach. This step-by-step manu
