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Wilder Research Topics

Topics That Matter

Wilder Research conducts studies in areas that affect the quality of life for people and communities. By examining issues, trends and the effectiveness of programs and services, we provide credible information that can be used to inform strategies and action to improve lives.

Areas of Research

Criminal Justice and Violence Prevention
Our work looks at the effectiveness of violence prevention and intervention strategies.
Early Childhood and Youth
Our work provides a picture of how children, youth and families in Minnesota are faring, with a special focus on low-income families.
Education and Out of School Time
We study opportunity and achievement gaps for low-income students, students of color, students whose primary language is not English, and first-generation college students.
Public Health and Health Care
We study prevention, treatment and causes of poor health, including community assessments of healthy behaviors, needs and services, and evaluations of programs and initiatives addressing health concerns.
Housing and Homelessness
Our triennial statewide study provides the most current and comprehensive information and data on homelessness in Minnesota.
Mental Health
Our work identifies factors that affect mental health, especially in low-income and immigrant populations, and evaluating programs and services to assist children and adults with mental health issues.
Older Adults and Aging
We study support systems and their capacity to meet the needs of Minnesota’s growing population of older adults, funding sources and priorities, and what older adults, caregivers, service providers, and aging experts say about current and future needs.
Substance Use
We work across the substance use continuum, from prevention to treatment to recovery, we explore what works for programs and services.

Featured Research

Recent reports

Wilder Supportive Housing Services provide participants with flexible and responsive services alongside affordable housing.

The Economic Impacts of the Child Care Shortage in Northeastern Minnesota: Opportunities to Partner on Solutions

This report provides a current snapshot of the child care shortage in northeastern Minnesota and estimates the value of the child care industry in the region. Read the report »
Zucchini stacked on a table

Integrating Food Access and Equity Language in City Comprehensive Plans

Promising practices from two organizations that worked to incorporate food access and equity language within city comprehensive plans. Read the report »

Our latest research on education

MIGIZI Communications Native Academy Connections: Partnerships Between Schools and Nonprofits

MIGIZI Communications Native Academy Connections Evaluation Findings

Plus Program in Hennepin County: Snapshot of Plus in the 2016-17 School Year

This infographic presents metrics from a program serving youth and young adults involved in county services.
More on this topic »