The Central American Research and Policy Institute (CARPI/2001-Present)
CARPI is the result of continued diligent efforts by CSUN students, CATS faculty, and Central American community organizations for the purpose of developing research, policy and knowledge supporting the socioeconomic, cultural and civic development of the transnational Central American community.
In addition, CARPI works towards the establishment of an ongoing relationship with other entities in the United States and Central America.
Policy development and academic research includes issues of common concern such as immigration, civil society, economic development, and cultural diversity of Central Americans.
The research sponsored by CARPI is community oriented, hands-on, applied research that is:
- Undertaken by faculty mentors, experts in the discipline, and trained students.
- Focused on concrete issues in the lives of the community.
- Aimed at helping the community to understand itself and the challenges and changes it faces.
- The basis for viable proposals for community advancement in the future.
CARPI brings faculty, students, and community together as partners and participants in creating and disseminating the knowledge that will enable the Central American community to live up to its tremendous potential.