For the development of EVIDENCE, First Work engaged in extensive consultation with direct service organizations, funders, and community stakeholders. The results of our research indicated a demand for participatory research and evaluation services tailored to the unique needs of each organization. Organizations are seeking to increase their capacity to conduct and participate in research so as to deliver their services more effectively and enhance the impact of their programs. EVIDENCE’s participatory approach to conducting research and evaluation was established to address these needs expressed by community-based organizations.