Tucson Poverty Project
The Tucson Poverty Project offers University of Arizona undergraduate students a dynamic, hands-on learning experience at the intersection of research, policy, and community engagement. Through partnerships with local government agencies and nonprofits, students play a critical role in investigating the root causes and long-term impacts of intergenerational poverty in Southern Arizona.
Each year, our students conduct in-depth interviews with over 300 low-income households, gathering firsthand data that provides valuable insights into economic hardship, housing insecurity, and social mobility. This research not only advances academic understanding but also directly informs local policy initiatives, helping shape evidence-based solutions to address poverty in our region. By participating in this program, students develop essential skills in qualitative research, data analysis, and public policy, preparing them for impactful careers in social advocacy, public service, and beyond.
Learn Applied Research Skills
Students in the Tucson Poverty Project gain hands-on experience with real-world research methods, equipping them with essential skills for careers in policy, advocacy, and social research. Key competencies include:
- Participant Recruitment and Data Management – Learn how to identify, engage, and retain research participants while ensuring ethical data collection and organization.
- Empathy-Based Interviewing – Develop strong interpersonal skills to conduct meaningful, respectful conversations that capture the lived experiences of low-income households.
- Quantitative and Qualitative Analyses – Gain proficiency in analyzing data using both statistical and narrative approaches to uncover trends and inform policy recommendations.
- Professional Communication and Outreach – Build the ability to present research findings effectively to policymakers, nonprofit leaders, and community stakeholders, driving real-world impact.
Community Partnerships
Collaboration with local agencies and nonprofits is at the heart of the Tucson Poverty Project. These partnerships ensure that our research is both impactful and actionable, helping to inform policies and programs that address poverty in Southern Arizona. Recent partners include:
- City of Tucson Housing and Community Development – Working together to assess housing affordability, stability, and access to critical resources.
- Southern Arizona Prosperity Initiative – Partnering to analyze economic mobility and develop strategies for long-term community prosperity.
- Tucson and Pima County Eviction Prevention Program – Conducting research to support evidence-based solutions that help prevent housing displacement and strengthen tenant protections.
Through these partnerships, students contribute to real-world policy discussions, ensuring their research leads to tangible, community-driven change.
Our Annual Community Forum
The Tucson Poverty Project hosts an Annual Community Forum, bringing together students, researchers, policymakers, and nonprofit leaders to discuss poverty in Southern Arizona. This event provides a platform to:
- Learn About Our Findings and Policy Recommendations – Gain insights from our latest research on the causes and consequences of poverty, as well as actionable strategies for addressing economic hardship in the region.
- Share Insights and Shape Future Research – Contribute ideas for new questions and topics to explore, ensuring our work remains relevant and responsive to community needs.
- Network with Local Leaders – Connect with professionals from government agencies, nonprofits, and advocacy organizations who are working to create lasting change.
Join us to be part of the conversation and help drive meaningful solutions for Southern Arizona.
Join Us in the Fight Against Poverty in Southern Arizona!
Upcoming Events
There are no upcoming events listed.