Shalom Lamm on Measuring What Matters: Defining and Communicating True Impact in 2025
In the nonprofit sector, the phrase “measuring impact” gets thrown around a lot. But what does it really mean to measure impact? And more importantly, how do organizations define meaningful impact and communicate it clearly to donors, stakeholders, and communities?
Entrepreneur and social impact strategist Shalom Lamm has worked extensively with mission-driven organizations, including Operation Benjamin, a nonprofit supporting families who have lost loved ones in military service. Through these partnerships, he has witnessed firsthand the challenges and breakthroughs involved in moving beyond superficial metrics toward authentic impact measurement.
In this post, we explore why measuring what matters is crucial in 2025, how to define impact in a way that truly reflects your mission, and best practices for communicating your results effectively. Let’s dive in.
Why Measuring Real Impact Matters More Than Ever
Today’s donors, volunteers, and partners expect transparency, accountability, and evidence that their support is making a difference. Shalom Lamm explains:
“No one wants to give to an organization that can’t show the real-world change they’re driving. Measuring impact builds credibility, strengthens trust, and fuels ongoing support.”
For nonprofits like Operation Benjamin, which supports families through grief and healing after military loss, impact is deeply personal and nuanced. Success isn’t just a number—it’s measured in the emotional resilience, community connection, and lasting support that the organization facilitates.
Defining Impact: Beyond Metrics and Numbers
1. Start with Your Mission
Shalom Lamm emphasizes that meaningful impact measurement begins with a crystal-clear mission statement. What problem are you solving? What change do you want to see in the world?
Operation Benjamin’s mission is to provide comfort and community to bereaved military families. Their impact isn’t just about how many families they serve but how effectively they foster healing and belonging.
2. Identify Tangible Outcomes
Once the mission is clear, break down the desired outcomes into measurable indicators. These could be quantitative (number of families served, events held) or qualitative (improved well-being, increased social support).
Lamm advises, “Don’t just measure what’s easy. Measure what matters.”
For example, Operation Benjamin tracks:
- The number of support groups facilitated
- Participant feedback on emotional support received
- Long-term follow-up outcomes on family resilience
3. Include Both Short-Term and Long-Term Impact
Real change often happens over time. Shalom Lamm urges organizations to consider both immediate outputs and long-term effects.
“Donors might see the number of events as an output, but the real impact is how those gatherings transform lives months and years later.”
Operation Benjamin conducts follow-up surveys and storytelling initiatives to capture ongoing healing journeys, providing a fuller picture of their impact.
Communicating Impact: Storytelling Meets Data
Clear, compelling communication of your impact is just as important as the measurement itself. Shalom Lamm shares several tips to help nonprofits convey their story effectively:
1. Use Data to Support, Not Replace, Stories
Numbers show scale, but stories show soul. Combining both creates a persuasive narrative.
Operation Benjamin uses heartfelt testimonials alongside statistics to demonstrate how many families find solace and strength through their programs.
2. Visualize Your Impact
Charts, infographics, and videos can make complex data accessible and engaging. Lamm points out:
“Visual storytelling helps people quickly grasp your impact and motivates them to act.”
For instance, Operation Benjamin creates short videos capturing moments from memorial events, paired with key data points about participation and outcomes.
3. Be Transparent About Challenges
Honesty builds trust. Acknowledge areas where impact is still growing or where challenges persist.
Shalom Lamm stresses, “Authenticity in your reporting shows that you’re committed to learning and improvement, not just celebration.”
Tools and Technologies Shaping Impact Measurement in 2025
As technology advances, so do the tools available for impact measurement. Shalom Lamm recommends leveraging:
- Data dashboards to track real-time metrics
- Survey platforms with sentiment analysis for qualitative feedback
- CRM systems integrated with impact data for donor reporting
- Story collection apps to capture beneficiary experiences
Operation Benjamin uses a blend of these technologies to maintain a robust impact tracking system that informs both program development and fundraising.
Impact Measurement as a Catalyst for Growth and Improvement
Measuring impact isn’t just about accountability—it’s also a powerful tool for continuous learning.
Shalom Lamm explains that by regularly analyzing impact data, nonprofits can:
- Refine programs to better meet community needs
- Identify emerging trends and gaps
- Showcase successes to attract new supporters
- Make data-driven decisions that drive sustainability
Operation Benjamin regularly reviews impact data to enhance its support services and expand outreach efforts based on what’s working best.
Final Thoughts: Measuring What Matters with Shalom Lamm
In a world saturated with causes competing for attention, defining and communicating real impact sets mission-driven organizations apart. Shalom Lamm reminds nonprofit leaders:
“Your impact is the proof of your purpose. Measuring and sharing it honestly empowers your community to believe in your work and invest in your future.”
For organizations like Operation Benjamin, that means going beyond numbers to reveal the true transformation their programs bring to families and communities.
