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"What are we doing, and why do we think it's going to make a difference? Are we being effective?" Grantmakers ask evaluation questions like these of their grantees and themselves. This brief guide explains why grantmakers use theories of change to guide their questioning, unearth assumptions that underlie their work, establish common language, and develop strong action plans. Contributors to the guide also describe how a theory of change sets the stage for evaluation by clarifying goals, strategies, and milestones.

Enacted in September 2010, the New York Prudent Management of Institutional Funds Act (NYPMIFA) makes important changes to the laws concerning the expenditure of charitable endowment funds. It also includes new provisions concerning the prudent management and investment of funds held by charities and the delegation of management and investment responsibilities to outside advisors, along with new protections for donors. This Guide summarizes key provisions of the Act and provides practical guidance in response to frequently asked questions.