What is the Colorado Community-Based Research Network?

Statement of Purpose
Our mission is to conduct community-based research that empowers neighborhood organizations and residents to address their own needs and shape their own futures. The CCBRN is a network of university and college faculty, staff, and students; non-profit and community-based organizations; and foundations interested in conducting community- based research that benefits the metro-Denver area. We provide research support and training; library access and information gathering services; and coordination of fundraising efforts.

What is community-based research?
Community-Based Research (CBR) is research conducted by, for, and with the participation of community members. CBR involves collaboration between community members (represented by grassroots activists, community-based organizations, workers etc.) and higher education researchers. Such collaboration can have powerful and long-lasting results that reflect the investment of each party and the benefits of working together.

History and Future
The Colorado Community Based Research Network began in 2001 as a joint program at the University of Denver between the College of Education’s Community Based Research Project and the Center for Service Learning and Civic Engagement. In 2002, the Colorado Community Based Research Network was formed to include faculty members from Regis University and University of Colorado at Denver as well as representatives from local non-profits, community-based organizations, and foundations.

Funding
The CCBRN is currently supported by The Piton Foundation and a portion of a grant from The Bonner Foundation. Fundraising is an on-going effort as we continue to search for financial support.