Since 1967, the Center has been committed to serving Detroit and its metropolitan area by:

• Conducting and disseminating research
• Developing policies and programs
• Providing training, capacity-building, and technical assistance

Through these approaches, the Center participates in defining and influencing local, regional, state, and national urban policy. Often, the Center collaborates with WSU faculty to combine their substantive expertise with the methodological skills of Center staff. They also work closely with community organizations and local governments to answer key questions about the metropolitan area and about policy or organizational issues.

Center staff are skilled in techniques of demographic analysis, mapping, evaluation, sample surveys, qualitative data collection, and policy analysis. The Center holds expertise in community development, urban studies, demography, economic development, public safety, disabilities, and education.