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Translating research into policy and practice - sharing our findings and expertise around the state, country and world

Home to innovative research programs and renowned leaders in the field of disabilities

Our faculty, staff, and students engage in a variety of research-related activities, many which are integrated across community service projects thereby creating a direct link between research and practice. We collaborate with numerous community, state, national, and international partners to fulfill unique needs throughout Illinois and beyond. Our research is applied and geared to increasing our understanding of disabilities, developing and testing model programs, and translating research into policy and practice.

Research centers and community programs

  • Leverage For every $1 that we receive from our core federal grant, we leverage an additional $16.80 from federal, state, local and other funding sources

  • Influence Our subject-matter experts facilitate the public policy debate, legislative activity and advocacy efforts in the disability field through their research findings

  • Expertise Our research advances the areas of participation among people with disabilities, employment and entrepreneurship, family support, aging, health promotion and community living

Promoting Systems Change Heading link

Kaitlin and Caitlin holding signs in front of building

We serve as a resource to the State to promote systems change for people with disabilities and their families in Illinois and beyond. We play a leading role in Illinois in conducting research and evaluations of programs and policies that directly impact Illinois residents with developmental disabilities and their families.  Our Evaluation and Public Policy Unit is available to assist agencies, organizations, universities and state and government departments with evaluation and training needs.