The 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. ITRD engages in the following activities:

1. Research

ITRD works with communities to participate in research that will enable them to reflect on their context, develop questions that surface, engage in fieldwork to answer those questions, analyze the findings and plan for new actions.

2. Capacity Building

ITRD provides opportunities for organizations working in communities to develop potential for addressing their own capacity to respond to social issues within their communities. ITRD does this through training components, connecting people, providing expertise and interpretive material, and brokering relationships with private and public organizations and institutions.

3. Evaluation

ITRD provides opportunities for community based organizations to evaluate their activities and to formulate new strategies of action. ITRD does this through a process of participatory action research and asset-based appreciative inquiry.

4. Economic Development

ITRD assists community-based organizations to develop projects that will result in economic growth that is sustainable and has potential for transforming the communities. ITRD provides best practice models and case studies of effective economic development projects around the globe. ITRD assists organizations in securing funding for their projects. ITRD also assists government agencies with economic feasibility studies for community strategies.

For More Information Contact:
Grace R. Dyrness, D.P.D.S.
Tel. 626.675.8245
Fax 626.794.5076
gracedyrness@urban-initiatives.org

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