Case Study: Jewish Vocational Service Boston achieves 20:1 social ROI and cost-effective workforce outcomes with Bonterra Apricot

Jewish Vocational Service Boston - Customer Case Study

Jewish Vocational Service (JVS Boston) delivers job training and education to more than 15,000 low-skill, low-income adults annually, helping people enter and advance in the Boston-area labor market. Although prior evaluations showed strong outcomes, JVS faced growing pressure from funders to demonstrate the cost effectiveness and monetary value of its programs to secure scarce public and private investments.

JVS commissioned an SROI study using the Robin Hood Foundation methodology across four program areas; it found that every $1 invested returns about $2–$3 in participant benefits within 1–2 years and $5–$15 within 5–10 years, with an overall SROI reported as $20:$1. The analysis validated program impact, guided resource allocation (including ending a less cost-effective culinary program), and strengthened communications with funders while motivating staff and participants.

Jewish Vocational Service Boston

Phil Loomis

Vice President of IT