ABSTRACT
In developing partnerships between a non-governmental organisation (NGO) and faith leaders, data collection and analysis might not always be an obvious priority and sometimes might not be necessary. However, in certain contexts, data can stimulate, enhance, and strengthen these partnerships. International Care Ministries (ICM) is a faith-based NGO in the Philippines that has been implementing a poverty alleviation programme in partnership with local pastors for over ten years. Part of ICM’s ethos is to be data-driven and evidence based, both in how their strategies are developed and how programmes are monitored. This chapter explores how data was utilised by ICM for targeting, monitoring, scale, and experimentation with a focus on how these efforts affected ICM’s partnership with pastors. The collection of data can often be seen as a cold, impersonal process, whereas the role of faith leaders is associated with compassion and care. The tensions and misunderstandings that arise due to this perceived mismatch are discussed. Data can be positive for these partnerships, but creatively and appropriately matching methods, reporting, and use is of critical importance.
