On The Ground Research partners with organizations and agencies to conduct social science research focused on the criminal justice system and issues important to cities and towns. Through an applied research model, On The Ground collaborates with community members to improve neighborhood conditions and challenge institutional structures that contribute to the current conditions. Community members participate throughout the research process to make sure that the questions, methods, and findings are rooted in and relevant to the actual experiences of people living, working, and visiting the neighborhood. While On The Ground’s methodological approach is always guided by the question at hand, most of the research is mixed-methods or qualitative because context is key to understanding. On The Ground frequently incorporates visual methods to better understand diverse experiences, make data accessible, and engage stakeholders.

All the work is approached through a social justice lens. With a focus on community-based interventions and collaboration, OTG has expertise in technical assistance, program implementation, and continuous program improvement.