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Developing a Theory of Change

Practical Theory of Change Guidance, Templates and Examples

Guidance for funders and programme teams planning social change efforts. Part 1 explains theory of change concepts, benefits and limits. Part 2 gives step-by-step guidance, exercises and examples for writing an equitable theory of change. Part 3 provides fillable templates for components, assumptions and audiences. Part 4 shows example models. The guide stresses equity and community engagement, and it replaces a 2004 guide the foundation commissioned from ORS Impact.

Why it is in the libraryAn updated two-part guide that explains theory of change terms and then walks through building one, from a foundation that has funded this work for twenty years.

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The Annie E. Casey Foundation (2022). Developing a Theory of Change: Practical Theory of Change Guidance, Templates and Examples. https://www.aecf.org/resources/theory-of-change

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