The Center for Research on Inclusion and Social Policy examines systemic issues at the intersection of social policy and equity, and helps leaders and residents make informed decisions about those issues.
CRISP projects seek to make race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status a primary focus of inclusion-related work, with an understanding and a willingness to explore how those factors intersect with gender, community, and identities that affect one’s well-being.
About CRISP
Our Mission
We analyze and disseminate community-relevant research about social disparities and complex policy issues.
CRISP's primary goals
- Evaluate solutions: Support local organizations in understanding programs that address social policy issues.
- Develop knowledge: Address complex social issues through applied and translational research.
- Disseminate knowledge: Engage stakeholders and community members in issues related to equity and social policy.
- Support future problem solvers: Train students in skills related to evaluation and problem solving.
CRISP provides a unique opportunity to discuss issues at the nexus of poverty and social demographics. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution to addressing disparities, CRISP is dedicated to identifying what can work to reduce them.
Breanca Merritt, founding director
Social policy and inclusion
Social policy is complex, involving issues of health, social services, housing, education, criminal justice, and employment, among others. Social inclusion adds even more complexity to reducing social problems and disparities between groups. These disparities require expertise from multiple disciplines to effectively address and identify comprehensive solutions.
