Stephen J. Sills, PhD Housing, MWBEs, Racial Justice

Pathways to Healing: How Municipalities Can Embrace Restorative Justice and Reparations

In addressing the complex issue of reparations within local municipalities, the City of High Point offers a compelling case study in how communities can undertake restorative justice initiatives to address historical injustices and systemic discrimination against African Americans. This exploration into High Point's approach provides a blueprint for other municipalities seeking reconciliation and healing. Reconciliation … Continue reading Pathways to Healing: How Municipalities Can Embrace Restorative Justice and Reparations

Stephen J. Sills, PhD Housing, IDD

Navigating Housing Challenges for Individuals with IDD in Forsyth County, NC

Dr. Stephen J. Sills authored a report entitled, "Forsyth Housing Needs Assessment for Individuals with IDD" on behalf of the Piedmont Triad Regional Council (PTRC). The report presents an in-depth analysis of the housing needs for individuals with IDD in Forsyth County. It highlights the challenges in finding affordable and safe housing options that allow … Continue reading Navigating Housing Challenges for Individuals with IDD in Forsyth County, NC

Stephen J. Sills, PhD Racial Justice

Transforming High Point: Key Strategies from the Racial Equity Scorecard

YCWA High Point released a new report on racial disparities in the city. The Racial Equity Scorecard looks at gaps in wealth, education, public safety, and health between Black and white families. Developed by Dr. Stephen J. Sills, the Scorecard aims to address racial disparities in High Point, NC, stemming from historical policies. It offers crucial data for … Continue reading Transforming High Point: Key Strategies from the Racial Equity Scorecard

Stephen J. Sills, PhD Workforce Equity

Piedmont Triad’s Challenge: Achieving Equity in a Diverse Workforce

The Piedmont Triad's workforce landscape presents a unique amalgamation of challenges and opportunities. Recently, there has been a critical focus placed on understanding and improving workforce equity in the region. In 2023, Dr. Stephen J. Sills authored a comprehensive analysis of workforce equity for the Piedmont Triad Regional Council entitled, "Strengthening Equity & Community Growth … Continue reading Piedmont Triad’s Challenge: Achieving Equity in a Diverse Workforce

Stephen J. Sills, PhD Uncategorized

Understanding the Potential and Pitfalls of Impact Evaluation

Impact evaluation has rapidly gained traction as a useful tool for non-profits and governmental agencies to assess the effectiveness of their initiatives. As decision-makers, understanding the potential benefits and inherent challenges of impact evaluation can help you make informed choices about its utility for your organization. Moreover, applying an equity lens to these evaluations can … Continue reading Understanding the Potential and Pitfalls of Impact Evaluation

Stephen J. Sills, PhD Evaluation Research

An Exploration of the Success Case Method in Program Evaluation

The Success Case Method (SCM) is a qualitative and evaluative research approach that focuses on identifying and understanding the best examples of successful outcomes in a given context. The SCM, developed by Robert O. Brinkerhoff, is a useful tool for evaluating the effectiveness of programs, interventions, or strategies in organizations and other settings. The SCM … Continue reading An Exploration of the Success Case Method in Program Evaluation

Stephen J. Sills, PhD Evaluation Research

Decoding Results-Based Accountability: An Analytical Insight into Mark Friedman’s Influential Framework and Its Application in Public and Nonprofit Sectors

Results-Based Accountability (RBA), also known as Outcomes-Based Accountability, is a data-driven decision-making framework that aims to improve the performance of services, programs, and communities. It was conceived and developed by Mark Friedman, a renowned social policy analyst and author, to measure the performance of services within the public and nonprofit sectors. His book, "Trying Hard … Continue reading Decoding Results-Based Accountability: An Analytical Insight into Mark Friedman’s Influential Framework and Its Application in Public and Nonprofit Sectors

Stephen J. Sills, PhD MWBEs

Small Businesses in North Carolina: A Spotlight on Minority and Women-Owned Enterprises

North Carolina has long been a beacon for small businesses, consistently ranking in the top five states for business by Forbes since 2006. As the Tar Heel State continues to attract people with its affordable housing, low cost of living, and favorable tax rates, it's no surprise that small businesses are thriving here. A critical … Continue reading Small Businesses in North Carolina: A Spotlight on Minority and Women-Owned Enterprises