Turn “what are we even doing” into a north star you can actually use. This toolkit brings together Julia Matthews’ complete framework for building a theory of change that actually helps you make decisions — not one that lives in a drawer.
From the Helia Library — based on the article What If Your Theory of Change Is Your North Star?, from our Coffee Chat with Julia Matthews.
What’s Inside
Three resources, meant to be used in sequence. Start with the article to understand the framework, then work through the worksheet — with the filled-in example close by so you’re never staring at a blank page.
01 — Julia’s Theory of Change Worksheet
A six-section framework that walks you through the north star, result, actions, levers, measures, and hypothesis check — one question at a time. Use this when you’re ready to sit down and actually build your theory of change (or pressure-test the one you already have).
02 — Helia’s Theory of Change
Helia’s own filled-in worksheet — real answers, including the places we got stuck and the moments Julia pushed back. Use this alongside the blank worksheet so you can see what “done” looks like before you try it yourself.
03 — Quick Reference: When Results Aren’t Showing Up
A one-pager with three questions to run through when your numbers aren’t moving. Use this when you’ve built your theory of change and need a fast diagnostic to figure out where in the chain things broke.
If You Want Help
Julia Matthews does not currently have capacity for new clients, but Helia Collective Member Nicole Pollock does similar work in the organizations she supports.
- You need someone who can hold the conversation — not just hand you a template
- You’re building or rebuilding your strategy and want a thought partner who’s done it inside organizations (not just consulted on it)
- You need help translating what you know into something you can communicate to funders, boards, and teams
- You’re navigating rapidly changing conditions and need a framework that helps you adapt, not one that locks you in
