URL: https://bwsmithconsulting.com/services/program-evaluation/ Updated: 2026-11-09 Service # Program evaluation An outside evaluator who learns your program, collects only the data you need and tells you, in plain language, what is working. By [Bonnie W. Smith](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/about/#bonnie-smith), MPH, CPH, CPP Reviewed by [Alyssa Gilbert](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/about/#alyssa-gilbert), MPH Updated November 9, 2026 In short We evaluate public health programs, with a specialty in behavioral health. We build the evaluation plan with you, collect data from records you already keep plus surveys and interviews, track outcomes as the program runs, and report results your staff, board and funders can understand and act on. ## What is included - An evaluation plan and logic model matched to your funder's requirements - Data collection tools, from surveys to intake and follow up forms - Ongoing tracking with summaries you can use during the year - Federal reporting support, including SPARS and GPRA data - Analysis of numbers and of people's own words - A final report and a presentation for your board or coalition ## What program evaluation tells you A good evaluation answers two questions your funders and your board care about: are you doing what you said you would do, and is it making a difference for the people you serve? We look at both the process (who you reach, how often, and how closely the program follows its model) and the outcomes (what changes for participants and the community). ## How we work We use a developmental approach, which means we share what we see while the program is running, not only at the end. If attendance drops in one group or a referral step is not working, you hear about it in time to adjust. We also follow a "minimum data" practice. Before adding a new form, we look for the answer in records you already keep, such as intake data, electronic health records or attendance logs. Your staff should spend their time on the program, not on paperwork. ## Programs we evaluate Most of our evaluation work is in behavioral health: prevention, harm reduction, treatment and recovery. Recent and current projects include a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic, opioid referral and recovery programs, law enforcement diversion, medication assisted treatment, problem gambling awareness and community coalitions funded through federal and state grants. You can see examples in our [portfolio](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/portfolio/). ## What you receive You receive regular summaries during the year, the data your funder requires in the format it requires, and a final report written for real readers. We are happy to present the results to your board, coalition or community. ## Frequently asked questions **When should we bring in an evaluator?** As early as you can, ideally while you are writing the grant. Evaluation is easiest when the measures are planned before the program starts, so a baseline exists. **Do you work with federal reporting systems?** Yes. We have supported grantees with SAMHSA's Performance Accountability and Reporting System (SPARS) and GPRA data, and with state reporting templates. **Can you evaluate a program we are already running?** Yes. We start with the data you already have, fill the most important gaps and set up tracking for the rest of the grant period. Planning an evaluation, assessment or survey? Tell us about your program, your community and your deadlines. The first conversation is how we figure out what you actually need. [Book a call](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/contact/#form) ## Related - [Question What is the difference between a needs assessment and a program evaluation? A needs assessment comes before a program and asks what a community needs. A program evaluation comes during and after and asks whether the program is working. Read](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/questions/what-is-the-difference-between-a-needs-assessment-and-a-program-evaluation/) - [Compare Internal vs external evaluator The pros and cons of using staff to evaluate your program versus hiring an outside evaluator, with questions to help you decide what fits your grant and budget. Read](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/compare/internal-vs-external-evaluator/) - [Guide How to build a logic model for a grant A step by step guide to building a logic model for a grant application or evaluation plan, with an example from a youth prevention program and common mistakes. Read](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/guides/how-to-build-a-logic-model/) - [Grant program Drug Free Communities grant evaluation What the Drug Free Communities Support Program funds, the core measures and reporting it requires, and how an evaluator helps coalitions plan, collect and report. Read](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/grants/drug-free-communities/) - [Who we serve Evaluation and youth surveys for prevention coalitions Youth surveys, core measures, evaluation plans and grant support for prevention coalitions, including Drug Free Communities and SPF grantees. Read](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/who-we-serve/prevention-coalitions/) - [Free template Free logic model template A free, printable one page logic model template for grant applications and evaluation plans, with a worked example row and instructions for filling it in. Read](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/templates/logic-model-template/) Planning an evaluation, assessment or survey? Tell us about your program, your community and your deadlines. The first conversation is how we figure out what you actually need. [Book a call](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/contact/#form)Call 860.995.5853