Happy New Year!

It's December 28th, the New Year is just around the corner, and Catalyst Research and Development is looking forward to fresh adventures in evaluation! We are excited about all that lies ahead: new work to be completed; new connections to grow; new skills to apply and develop.

At Catalyst, we are committed to growth. You see it everywhere on our website. We've reframed "catalyst" to extend to organic growth (beyond the chemical associations so often embedded in the concept). We think it's a great symbol for how we work with you--our consultants and our clients. It's all about dialogue and the emergent moment when life happens, ideas grow, insights develop and new potential bursts forth. That's why our logo is a mug of fresh, green grass--life springs up when we meet with you over coffee!

Here in Kelowna we are spending time, during these holidays, in all sorts of creative events with family and friends. Gene is also getting ready to return to Zambia to develop his Grand Challenges research with health volunteers using digital devices in remote areas. We're also chasing down emerging methods in evaluation (right now for women's emergency shelters and iSchool in Zambia and South Sudan); reading up on evidence informed practices (harm reduction for violence prevention and addiction; Early Childhood Development); and, holding conversations on the best ways to move forward (utilization focused evaluation, creating space for collaborations).

And, we are wishing you all the best in 2013!

Kate and Gene