Independent research & analysis

Evidence for the decisions that shape public safety and human services.

An independent practice providing policy analysis, program evaluation, and applied data work for public safety agencies, human services programs, and the nonprofits advancing them.

Based in
Portland, Oregon
Working with
Public safety & human services
Available for
New projects
01 — Approach

Research that takes the question seriously.

Julie Connolly Research is an independent practice founded on a simple idea: good research begins with the right question, not the right method.

With graduate training in criminology and criminal justice from Portland State University, and experience supporting public safety offices and nonprofit enterprises, the practice partners with organizations working on policy, programs, and outcomes in areas including correctional policy, substance use disorder and mental health programming, and community-level public safety.

Every project is designed around the decisions it needs to inform. Methods — from GIS-based spatial analysis to qualitative inquiry to mixed-methods evaluation — are chosen to fit the question. The work is rigorous, independent, and translated into clear, decision-ready insight for the teams who have to act on it.

02 — Services

Three ways we work together.

i.

Research & evaluation

End-to-end studies designed around the decision your team is trying to make — framed, executed, and reported with care.

  • Policy analysis
  • Program evaluation
  • Mixed-methods studies
ii.

Data analysis & mapping

Independent quantitative and qualitative analysis, including GIS-based crime mapping and clear technical reporting for non-technical audiences.

  • GIS & spatial analysis
  • Quantitative & qualitative analysis
  • Data visualization & technical reports
iii.

Strategy & grant support

Practical support for nonprofits and public-sector teams shaping new programs, applying for funding, or planning what comes next.

  • Grant writing
  • Strategic planning
  • Nonprofit & educational consulting
03 — Selected work

A few recent projects.

2026
Evaluation of a county substance use disorder treatment program Public health agency
2025
GIS analysis of regional crime patterns and resource allocation Municipal public safety office
2025
Policy review of correctional reentry programming Nonprofit advocacy organization
2024
Grant proposal & strategic plan for community mental health services Regional nonprofit
04 — Get in touch

Have a question you're trying to answer?

julie@julieconnollyresearch.com →
Email
julie@julieconnollyresearch.com
Response time
Within 2 business days