• What We Do

What We Do

Since 1992, IPS has been a leader in population-level prevention. Our portfolio is broad. We design prevention programs, elevate consequential public health and safety issues, organize grassroots advocacy efforts, launch strategic media campaigns, influence policy and systems change, and build capacity among our many partners. Our work is informed by nationally-recognized researchers.

Our Approach

At IPS, we believe upstream approaches to public health – those that address the physical, social, cultural, and economic environments at a population level – have the greatest impact.

IPS’s Approach to Community Transformation (ACT) Model© is our demonstrated framework for creating upstream change. The ACT Model combines six components that strategically intersect to achieve a vision for community change. The ACT Model has been applied in communities around the nation.

Act Model

  • Community Transformation

    A Vision for Change. Every other component of the Model is applied with this vision in mind.

  • Media Advocacy

    Producing strategic, timely, sequential news enhanced by social media to frame issues, amplify voices, and advance change.

  • Data & Research

    Engaging with community to gather and examine qualitative and quantitative data to accurately understand problems. Employing evidence-informed strategies, tracking progress, and evaluating outcomes.

  • Sustainability

    Ensuring the necessary infrastructure, knowledge, resources, and accountability measures are in place to support long-term change.

  • Policy & Systems Change

    Advocating for upstream solutions that advance equity and support health, safety, and opportunity.

  • Community Organizing

    Engaging, listening to, and mobilizing communities to build collective power and break down systemic barriers.