Demystifying the Logic Model

Logic models can be intimidating, confusing and frustrating for grantwriters and program staff alike. They are often seen as just another hoop to jump through in the funding process. However, a well-constructed logic model can be extremely useful—internally as well as externally. In this class, participants will receive basic instruction in how to read and construct a logic model. They will also learn how using one can help in program planning and evaluation, as well as in communicating program impact to potential funders and other stakeholders. Participants will leave the webinar ready to make logic models work for them and to “sell” the benefits to colleagues.

After learning about the benefits of using logic models, participants will learn how to read them. The presenter will guide the participants through a sample logic model, defining and discussing each of the components in turn. The presenter will touch upon common points of confusion, such as the differences between outputs and outcomes. Afterwards, participants will have time to fill out a blank logic model grid or make changes to a logic model currently in use at their agency. As many participants as time allows will be given the opportunity to share parts of their logic model with the group and receive feedback from the presenter. Those who do not get the opportunity to receive feedback during the webinar may e-mail the presenter.

This workshop will cover logic model basics and is not designed for advanced grant professionals. If you have no experience with logic models this class should give you a solid foundation in the topic. If you have some experience, it should answer many of your questions and give you a better understanding of logic models. This class is ideal for those in the beginner to low-intermediate range.

Class Format: This class is recorded from the live class on November 6, 2009. On registering, you are transported to the classroom page, where you may play the class player to view the slides and hear the class presentation and discussion. You may log in as many times as you wish for one year from the date of registration, enabling you to replay portions of the class as you wish.

How to Register: Add the class (and any others that you wish to take) to your shopping cart, then proceed through the checkout process. As soon as you have completed the payment, you will be taken to the classroom page for this class, where you will find the class player where you play the class and view the slides. You may log in to listen to the class as often as you wish for up to one year from the date of registration.

About the Instructor 

Sue Ellen Schumacher, a Grant Developer at CJE SeniorLife (CJE) in Chicago, Illinois, has conducted several workshops on logic model basics, including a workshop at the 2009 GPA National Conference. Her interest in this topic stems from the gratification she feels when helping direct service staff to establish and carry out strong program evaluations.

Sue Ellen’s employer, CJE, annually touches the lives of 18,000 older adults and caregivers as it provides services that facilitate the independence of older adults and improve their quality of life. Over the previous fiscal year, Sue Ellen helped secure more than $350,000 in foundation support for CJE.

Dedicated to social justice, Sue Ellen spent two years in the Americorps program after college. During her first year of service, she was a GED teacher at Project Hope in Dorchester, Massachusetts. There she gained valuable insight on the program side of the grants world. Sue Ellen’s second Americorps assignment brought her to Chicago to work for the Campaign for Better Healthcare, where she honed her writing skills on the Healthcare Injustice Story Project, documenting the stories of those who struggle to access and pay for healthcare.

Sue Ellen holds an MA in Political Science from Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts and a BA in Religious Studies and Women’s Studies from Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois. In her spare time, she volunteers with her local chapter of GPA.