Projects That Matter: Successful Planning and Evaluation for Religious Organizations (Book)
Kathleen A. Cahalan, Author.  Herndon, VA: Alban Institute, 2003.

In organizational life, so much is done simply because it was done before. But Kathleen Cahalan helps readers to stop and ask, "Why are we doing this?" She also urges leaders to grasp that the necessity of posing the question rests in a particular understanding of stewardship. Alluding to Luke 6:48, she states, "As elements of Christian stewardship, planning and evaluation are ways in which Christians care for, monitor, and ensure both a strong foundation and a decent house."

Part one of Projects That Matter introduces project planning, using as a framework the elements of condition, resources, activities, results, impact, and rationale. Part two works through the process of evaluation, identifying six effective steps: focus, design, collect data, analyze and interpret, report, and revise rationale. Specific examples are presented: a parish attempting to attract newcomers, and a church camp attempting to evaluate its mission.

Readable, thorough, and immensely practical, Projects That Matter helps readers to recognize that time and patience are necessary for both good planning and helpful evaluation. Less organized leaders will find the step-by-step format and worksheets helpful. Other leaders will appreciate Cahalan's pragmatism and find affirmation as well as some new ideas in her work.

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