the research institute for structural change

“RISC has been a game-changer for WHEAT INC. As a grassroots organization dedicated to serving survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking, we often operate with limited resources, funding, and staff. RISC stepped in at a time when we desperately needed guidance in establishing our nonprofit structure, applying for grants, and expanding our capacity to serve our community.”

“Because of RISC’s support, we have been able to: (1) Secure funding that allowed us to take 113 foster care and state-warded children to summer camp, (2) Expand our trauma-informed services to more families in crisis, (3) Strengthen our outreach efforts, connecting more survivors with critical resources.”

“RISC has provided an invaluable link between WHEAT and Universities wealth of resources. Their connections to faculty expertise and research materials have allowed us to deepen our understanding of issues such as trauma-informed care, economic empowerment for survivors, and community-based advocacy strategies.”

“Most importantly, RISC has made it possible for us to dream bigger. They have invested in our organization in ways that many other organizations wouldn’t—because they believe in the power of small, grassroots nonprofits to create real change. Their work ensures that organizations like ours don’t just survive but thrive, ultimately allowing us to serve more people and save more lives.”

“The support provided by the Research Institute for Structural Change (RISC) has been instrumental in achieving significant milestones for Sara’s House/Place by enhancing our capabilities.”

“RISC has opened our thoughts on how to engage the community to come together in non- traditional culturally specific ways.”

“One thing I appreciate concerning RISC is that they listen to the needs of the organization. They collaborate closely with our vision by supplying well-informed students who assist with essential research. Working with RISC has afforded Sara’s House to receive our first federal grant through the Department of Justice and because of their hard work and dedication, this year we will be able to help more survivors of domestic/sexual assault and the homeless receive the help that they need.”

“For Milaan, the evaluation did more than confirm past success; it changed our future trajectory. The credibility of RISC’s report helped us secure new multi‐year commitments from donors eager to invest in scalable solutions.”

“RISC has become an essential ally to Milaan Foundation and, more broadly, to community organisations that rely on rigorous yet accessible research to advance gender equity and youth empowerment, positioning the institute at the intersection where academic excellence meets public purpose.”

“The guidance and expertise of RISC have been invaluable for Black Women Shaping AfroFutures. RISC has helped position us within a coalition of organizations committed to making a transformative impact, and we are proud to be part of this collective effort. Recognizing that our journey is a long-term commitment, we are grateful to have RISC as a partner we can trust and rely on for support with a range of initiatives, from immediate action to strategic development. In today’s ever-changing landscape for grassroots organizations, we know we can turn to RISC for thoughtful advice and direction, knowing our initiatives will receive their full attention and support. […] RISC’s commitment to community-led solutions and innovation has been instrumental in advancing our far-reaching and ambitious goals to support our community.”