The Direct Action and Research Training Center

At the Direct Action and Research Training Center (DART), we believe powerlessness is the root cause of community problems.  We work to unite people of faith, because when we organize together, we can ensure that our values for justice and fairness are alive in our cities.  Our national network of 20 justice ministry organizations brings together congregations across racial, religious and socioeconomic lines to pursue justice in their communities. Unlike charities and direct service providers, DART organizations seek long-term, sustainable improvements at a systemic level. DART organizations regularly conduct direct action assemblies in which thousands of people from a cross-section of faith traditions publicly hold decision-makers accountable on local justice issues.  DART organizations' recent victories include: multi-million dollar investments in affordable housing, increased access to primary health and dental care, statewide legislation to rein in the payday loan industry, implementation of restorative justice practices in public schools, and the expansion of drug treatment programs to reduce criminal recidivism.