The Evolution of Institution-Based Community Organizing: Can Congregations Be Change Agents for Social Justice Again?

In recognition of substantial shifts in the field of institution-based community organizing (IBCO), Interfaith Funders, in collaboration with researchers from Duke University and The University of New Mexico, conducted research to document and better understand these changes.  A census of all IBCOs within the United States included a national survey and in-depth phone interviews with key “thought leaders.”  With the first phase of this study now complete, results will be released this fall.

 

Important findings show that the field has grown significantly by expanding in key areas to become more diverse in terms of geography, race, class and religion.  A shift in advocacy efforts was also noted.  Today, IBCOs are addressing a broader array of political and social issues and projecting increased people-based influence into the political arenas at the state and national level.  Join the researchers as they share their findings and discuss problems, solutions and the future of institution-based community organizing.

 

 

 

A Philanthropy New York Collaborative Program co-sponsored with Interfaith Funders, Unitarian Universalist Veatch Program at Shelter Rock, New York Foundation, Bend the Arc and the Wagner Center at New York University.

 

Richard L. Wood, Director of the Southwest Institute on Religion and Society, The University of New Mexico

 

 

All interested funders, especially faith-based funders and funders of children and youth.