Data is Kingdom Work
How do we know a $300 microloan truly transforms a life?
TOLI has the gift and responsibility to steward resources and transform the lives of entrepreneurs around the world. But how do we know it’s working?
We know because we monitor, measure, and learn through the power of data. Data helps us see the big picture, learn continuously, give more honor to TOLI entrepreneurs, and seek truth. It’s also a layer of accountability for the resources you’ve generously given.
For nearly a year, we’ve been developing an innovative new client tracking system called TOLI Atlas, a custom app designed to help nonprofits that work in remote areas collect real-time program data. And it’s a huge jump forward! Not only will it show the development of each TOLI entrepreneur as they progress through our program, it will help us track big-picture trends and make decisions as our program scales.
“With the right data, we can be sure that transformation is actually happening,” says Program Associate Morgan Shabe, shown here training TOLI Social Workers in Ethiopia on TOLI Atlas.
Morgan Shabe, TOLI’s Program Associate, is developing and rolling out the project. She’s most excited about how the platform will serve our TOLI Social Workers.
“Our Social Workers are tasked with an incredible load of caring for members of their own communities. They are trainers, teachers, prayer warriors, coaches, mentors, loan officers, administrators, and disciples,” says Morgan. “So by investing the time and energy on our side to build this system, we are giving time and energy back to the Social Workers and Partner Ministry teams. They will be equipped with a simple, sleek, data collection system that requires less time from them to be spent on updating spreadsheets. The system will then offer real-time insight and equip our teams with access to their own data, so they can track their own trends and make informed decisions about the TOLI program in their context.”
Often we think kingdom-building is “mission work” in the field, and it is. But it’s also building the behind-the-scenes tools needed to equip and empower our partners to measure impact. Please pray that this new tool will help us bring more hope, restoration, and Good News to places that need it most.
We’re in the process of upgrading devices for field staff to run TOLI Atlas – want to chip in?
“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” // John 10:10
TOLI Global Day of Fasting and Prayer
October 24, 2023. Mark your calendars for the second annual TOLI Global Day of Fasting and Prayer on October 24. Over 24 hours, we’ll lift up specific needs of the global TOLI family – needs like health, grief, marriages, and teams. More information to come!
Late Feb - Early March, 2024. Next February, TOLI is traveling to three countries – Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda – in one learning trip. And we’d love for you to join for part or all of it! Starting in Ethiopia, you’ll see one of our fastest growing programs. We’ll encourage TOLI entrepreneurs at a spiritual conference for widows, and travel out of Addis to see their newest site, Meki. In Kenya, you’ll have the opportunity to serve our partners at Kenya Connection Kids Ministry, develop relationships with TOLI Social Workers, and pray with clients. Ending in Uganda, you’ll see one of TOLI 's youngest programs and encourage the team as they grow.
For more information, email Audrey. Trip applications required.
Life Center Ethiopia // Fundraising Gala
October 14, 2023. Life Center Ethiopia, one of TOLI’s partner ministries, is hosting a fundraising dinner in Denver to celebrate what God has done through their ministry over the last 10 years. At the dinner, you'll taste authentic Ethiopian food, enjoy Ethiopian worship dancers, and hear from former Prime Minister Tamrat Layne and his amazing story of salvation and redemption. Get tickets here.