Building socially cohesive, economically vibrant communities and driving sustainable urban growth are concerns for developing and developed nations alike. Data gathered and interpreted by NORC researchers help governments and NGOs around the world enhance their community development policies and initiatives.

Working with a variety of partners, NORC has examined the social characteristics that helped or hindered neighborhood recovery after Hurricane Sandy; assessed housing needs in the tribal areas of the United States; and studied the impact that social mobility, economic opportunity, and other factors have on early childhood development. Internationally, NORC has also conducted impact assessments on rural and urban housing initiatives and other community development programs in Rwanda, Azerbaijan, and other countries.