The IWU Action Research Center is dedicated to the relentless pursuit of innovative ideas that transform communities. Since 2003, ARC has connected the campus and the community in meaningful ways that create impactful change and address pressing social justice issues. If you have an idea, a challenge, an opportunity, or a road block, ARC is a place to explore solutions and action plans.
Faculty and staff are role models, weave community engagement into courses, and conduct community-based research.
ARC has partnered with the West Bloomington Revitalization Project to offer students hands-on opportunities to create projects their passionate about and implement them into lasting programs that benefit the community.
The Give A Day Challenge encourages the IWU community to partner with the greater Bloomington-Normal community to share their passions and talents.
"The Action Research Center strives to provide opportunities where I can use my passion and knowledge to make a lasting impact in the community.
Wah Chook ’22 Major: Nursing
The Citizen Scholar First Year Experience course is a remarkable way to connect with the community and start driving change the second you step on campus.
In 2016, Illinois Wesleyan University established a partnership with the Peace Corps and proudly launched the IWU Peace Corps Prep Program. This certificate program aligns with IWU's mission and allows the university to better serve our students, our community, and the world.
ARC works with not-for-profit organizations, faith-based groups, businesses, civic groups, local government, neighborhood groups, and many others. ARC facilitates collaborative relationships that leverage the strengths of all parties to produce a successful project outcome. ARC has partnered with the West Bloomington Revitalization Project to offer students hands-on opportunities to create projects their passionate about and implement them into lasting programs that benefit the community.
