Home to a diverse, innovative staff, the Social Policy Institute (SPI) is a nonprofit affiliate of the School of Social Work at San Diego State University. Our recent successes show that we are quickly becoming a dynamic catalyst for helping public systems improve their community’s well-being by bridging academia and community knowledge through training, technical assistance, program design, research, advocacy, and collaboration.
At the Social Policy Institute, we are committed to assisting community members, through system innovation, to access the services, supports and resources necessary to engage in civic participation, experience a sense of belonging, and have opportunities to achieve their aspirations. Clearly no one “system” has the mandate, resources or reach to address both individual/family issues and the larger social problems that exacerbate adverse consequences such as poverty, racism, inadequate housing/homelessness, poor schools, crime, and racial and ethnic disparities—therefore we must work together to align systems for the common good.
Our Mission: To bridge academia with government, business, and the community to increase individual, family and community well-being.
Our Vision: Across the lifespan, everyone is safe, educated, healthy and well; with a sense of belonging, purpose, and opportunity to achieve their aspirations.
Therefore, we commit ourselves to accomplish our vision and mission by:
- Challenging ourselves to excellence in what we do.
- Learning to be ever more effective.
- Engaging others with respect and collaboration.
- Focusing on innovation and impact with data.
- Raising awareness and advocacy for social justice.
- Strengthening community relationships and belonging.
- Working to improve the quality of life for individuals, families, and communities.