Our Mission

The Hoop Institute is a non-for-profit research, service and educational organization committed to improving the lives of working people in disenfranchised communities of color (African American, Latino, Asian, Native American) and poor white ethnic. The Institute seeks to develop a thorough understanding of the factors that act as a barrier to the growth and development of these communities.

The Hoop Institute conducts research on several areas that are essential to a stable community life. These areas include health, education, housing, economic development, safety and the environment. The Hoop Institute is committed to working with communities to identify solutions to the problems that continue to have an impact on oppressed people.

The Hoop Institute is designed to provide communities with the knowledge, resources, and support they need to become healthy and independent. The Institute promotes self-determination and empowerment by offering inner-city neighborhoods a socially conscious education and sharing our research findings on a variety of critical issues.

Our Name
The Hoop Institute takes its name from the Native American belief in the “Sacred Hoop of Life”. This belief views all things in the universe as interdependent. When Native Americans refer to “All my relations”, it is an acknowledgement of a relationship to all humans, animals, plants and matter. It is with respect and recognition of this belief that the Institute strives to contribute to the harmony and balance among all people.