The Institute for Civil Society

Inspired by Eastern European movements that overthrew communism by the sheer force of belief in freedom, the Institute for Civil society (ICS) holds that joint action by people in communities is as important as the actions of government and business in upholding democracy.

Established in 1995, and based in Newton, Massachusetts, ICS focused initially on forging relationships with grassroots groups to reduce handgun violence and improve the quality of life in Boston.  In 1996, it received an endowment of $35 million that enabled it to expand its reach, and launched a national New Century/New Solutions project to renew civil society and highlight community perspectives in other parts of the country.  ICS currently works in four program areas.  Democratic Capitalism seeks to bridge the gap between those who have access to the capital that can make things happen, and those who do not.  Health and Science Policy contributes to new ways of thinking about complicated issues, such as the relationship between biotechnology and cures for disease.  Culture and Creativity identifies ways in which institutions, such as schools, can help to foster innovative thinking.  Violence works to change the conditions that make violence possible.