Ripple Effects Mapping (REM) is a participatory evaluation method that helps groups identify both direct and indirect impacts of their work. Unlike traditional grant reports or evaluations—which can feel burdensome and often fail to capture the full story of an organization’s impact—REM is designed to be more reflective and celebratory.

Through group mind mapping, REM visually shows how projects lead to both intended and unintended changes in organizations, communities, or populations. It centers the voices of participants, capturing stories of impact from those directly involved. This approach aligns with trust-based philanthropy by valuing lived experience, reducing reporting burden, and emphasizing learning over compliance.

​We offer REM to all of our grant partners and prioritize its use with multi-year partners in consulation with Glimmer Collaborative, LLC to better understand long-term impact over time.