Centers and Institutes
Through innovative, client-based research centers as well as enterprising institutes and programs, faculty and students at Loyola University Chicago’s School of Social Work engage in social justice-oriented research that informs practice, inspires new ways of tackling complex issues, and strengthens individual lives, communities, and society.
Center for Field Innovation, Research, Strategy and Training (C-FIRST)
C-FIRST engages in community-based interventions and practice-based research supporting the sustainable implementation of innovative interventions crafted to uplift organizations, clinicians, and students across the Chicago area. C-FIRST programs include behavioral health workforce training, certification in advanced brief interventions for substance use disorders, and promotion of a pipeline to employment for those at high risk of opioid use disorder.
Visit the C-First website.Center for Immigrant and Refugee Accompaniment (CIRA)
CIRA helps students and other practitioners better advocate for immigrant and refugee populations in the Chicago area, across the United States, and around the globe. Through collaborative research, advocacy, community engagement, and direct accompaniment opportunities to listen, witness, and engage in critical inquiry and joint action, CIRA affirms human dignity and helps immigrants and refugees realize their capabilities, exercise their rights, and transform their social condition and institutions.
Visit the CIRA WebsiteEmpowering Counseling Program
In partnership with local schools, residents, churches, and social service providers, Loyola’s Empowering Counseling Program (ECP) serves youth of color and their families residing in low-income Chicago communities. Since its founding in 2006, the grassroots program has delivered free after-school and summer program services, trauma-focused mental health care in schools and community agencies, and street-based social work to support participants and link them with resources.
Visit the Program's website.FCTI - Fostering Connections Training Institute
The FCTI offers training on improving relationships with youth in care to child welfare professionals, adult mentors, foster parents, and caregivers. The Institute’s curriculum provides participants with evidence-informed approaches to relationship development and psychological self-sufficiency designed to spur higher quality relationships and improved goal achievement.
Visit the FCTI WebsiteThrough innovative, client-based research centers as well as enterprising institutes and programs, faculty and students at Loyola University Chicago’s School of Social Work engage in social justice-oriented research that informs practice, inspires new ways of tackling complex issues, and strengthens individual lives, communities, and society.