Universalia was asked to carry out an independent assessment of PARTNERS, a non-profit organization that enables poor rural communities in developing nations to achieve sustainable livelihoods. The objectives of the assessment were to: 1) provide reliable findings, and practical recommendations for decision-making regarding PARTNERS programs and future support; 2) help NGO Division of CIDA determine whether the projects and programs receiving funds from NGO Division were carried out efficiently and effectively; and 3) provide an opportunity for PARTNERS to actively engage in a self-assessment. The services provided by Universalia included: 1) designing, planning and managing the assignment; 2) data collection and analysis; and 3) developing and producing presentations and final reports on the findings and recommendations for CIDA, PARTNERS Board and staff (mention work in Guyana-review of a capacity building program.