What does it really take to develop and implement an excellent social impact measurement framework?

SIMNA Sydney invites you to an online event where we will hear from the 2023 winner of the Excellence in Social Impact Measurement Award, For-Purpose Evaluations (FPE) and Guide Dogs Australia.  The panel will share their insights, expertise and reflections on the resources, commitment and change management required to build an award-winning framework in 2024.

When: Wednesday 15 May 2024, 12:30-13:45 AEST

Where: Online (via Zoom)

Tickets: Free for SIMNA members, $15 for non-members. Get your tickets here!

Chaired by Amber Colhoun from SIMNA Sydney, this webinar will include a panel discussion from representatives from participating Guide Dogs organisations and FPE.

The Guide Dogs SIM Framework provides a fully accessible, evidence-based, collaboratively designed approach to measuring and communicating social impact across four separate GD organisations (Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, Guide Dogs QLD, Guide Dogs SA/NT and Guide Dogs Victoria). FPE has supported Guide Dogs to develop their framework over the last two years. The framework was piloted in 2023, with findings collated in September that year. So far, the findings have been used to support conversations about service improvement and planning for advocacy work. 

This online event will include 60 minutes of panel discussion and 15 minutes of audience Q&A.

Elisha Roberts (Guide Dogs QLD)

With over 20 years of experience in retail and for-purpose sectors, Elisha is General Manager of Client Services at Guide Dogs Queensland, a leading provider of life-changing services for people with low vision or blindness. Elisha is passionate about collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to design and implement processes that optimise business outcomes and enhance client satisfaction. Elisha is committed to making a positive impact in the community and empowering people to live independently and confidently.

Karen Carrigan (Guide Dogs NSW/ACT)

Karen is currently an Area Manager at Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, overseeing a multidisciplinary team of practitioners who work with clients to achieve their vision rehabilitation goals. She is an Orientation and Mobility Specialist and a qualified Access Consultant by background. She has an interest in Access and Inclusion and in understanding the role Guide Dogs’ services have in removing social barriers for clients and promoting social inclusion. 

Shelley Pannier (Guide Dogs VIC)

Shelley Pannier, Client Vision Services Manager; is an experienced Senior Manager who leads the Therapy services at Guide Dogs Victoria. With an extensive background as an Orthoptist and an Orientation and Mobility Specialist I have enjoyed connections with people who have low vision or blindness to achieve their potential with goals important to them.

Sam Cooper (For-Purpose Evaluations)

Sam is a social impact, evaluation and strategy specialist with experience in local council, state government, consulting and not for profit contexts, across a broad range of policy and program areas. Sam’s focus in her work is on collaboration to ensure that what is produced is useful on the ground. Sam led the Guide Dogs Australia Social Impact Measurement Framework for For-Purpose Evaluations, working with the teams in NSW, QLD, SA and Victoria since 2022.