The Institute for Urban Initiatives (formerly the Institute for Urban Research and Development) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that consists of several community-based and faith-based institutes that respond to the economic, housing, and social needs of neighborhoods, cities, and counties from local community, regional, national, international, and faith-based perspectives.

In addition, the Institute for Urban Initiatives is closely associated with the Office for Urban Initiatives of Fuller Theological Seminary by providing opportunities for students to strengthen their education through in-depth study of urban issues and collaborative research. For more information click here.

COMMUNITY-BASED AND FAITH-BASED INSTITUTES

The Institute for Urban Initiatives has established several community-based and faith-based institutes that provide a wide-range of community research, education, evaluation, and development activities that include the following:

• The Research Action Council (TRAC)

The Research Action Council (TRAC) for Community and Economic Development has completed over 40 community-based assessments for local government and private organizations throughout Southern California. Assessments have focused on affordable housing, business development and education for micro-businesses, fair housing, health care, homelessness, migrant farming, and street vending.

• Institute for Community Psychology

Institute for Community Psychology (ComPsych) studies, designs, and implements assessments, policies, and programs that help community institutions and systems of care improve the quality of life of local neighborhoods. Activities have focused upon domestic violence, health care, homelessness, mental health care, and substance abuse treatment.

• Institute for Transnational Research and Development (ITRD)

Institute for Transnational Research and Development is dedicated to the transformation of communities by engaging members in reflection and action that is based firmly in their contexts. ITRD understands the inter-connectivity of communities across national borders, thereby working to strengthen their natural networks and flows. Click here to see list of current projects (PDF).

• Institute for Vital Economic and Neighborhood Development

Institute for Vital Economic and Neighborhood Development (VEND) facilitates neighborhood economic revitalization by creating viable employment and income generating opportunities through the development of successful worker-owned, small business enterprises.

• Institute for Faith-Based Initiatives

Institute for Faith-Based Initiatives (FBI) promotes partnerships between faith-based organizations (including congregations) and other private and public agencies in order to further local community and economic development. FBI especially helps congregations to identify service opportunities within such partnerships and to develop the resources necessary to fulfill such roles.

• Institute for the Urban Monk

Institute for the Urban Monk (Urban Monk) integrates monastic spiritual practices with the daily experiences of urban life. Monastic spiritual practices help us nurture an inward spirit that is oriented towards seeking and experiencing God among the daily people, places, and activities that make up our everyday life.

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