Poverty Studies Summer Institute

The Poverty Studies Summer Institute is a unique study opportunity that brings together practitioners, students and community members into an intimate learning community to explore the causes and impacts of poverty and best practices in how to reduce and end it. The program consists of a variety of workshops and courses that provide both the knowledge and skill base to work effectively in the practice of poverty reduction. Courses may be eligible for credit for Ambrose University degree programs.

A compass for complexity: finding your way in wicked terrain

Poverty is a wicked problem that defies easy definitions or solutions. Tackling it requires the concerted efforts of many people and voices in the community. This year the Summer Institute focuses on dealing with complexity and finding a path forward among competing visions and understandings of the meaning of poverty and the issues that shape it. Explore topics such as racism and oppression, trauma, immigrant settlement, migrant rights and human trafficking. Expand your knowledge through an exploration of complexity and the meaning of poverty. Deepen your practice with enhanced skills in leadership, management and social work. Come for a session or stay for the full program.

The 2024 Summer Institute runs from May 6 - 25. Residence accommodation is available if required.

To receive updates about the Summer Institute please email us at povertyinstitute@ambrose.edu.

WORKSHOPS

Academic Courses

Academic courses can be taken for university credit or for personal interest (audit). If you are interested in joining one of our academic courses, please contact enrolment@ambrose.edu for more information.

Poverty in Western Society (BHS350 / PV501)

This course will provide an overview of the origins and understanding of poverty in western society from both a theoretical and theological standpoint. This will include a review of the sources of vulnerability that contribute to poverty and the psycho-social impacts of poverty on vulnerable populations and the broader society. Strategic approaches to poverty reduction will be explored along with the respective roles of the church, state and civil society in preventing, alleviating and reducing poverty.

  • Dates: May 6 - 17 (afternoons)

Management of Non-Profit Organizations (BUS305)

This course is designed to provide current and future nonprofit managers and leaders with a range of nonprofit management concerns and practices. Course projects and discussions introduce/expand students' management skills, analytical tools, and knowledge. and discussions allow students to test knowledge, formulate ideas and strategies, respond to management dilemmas, and get immediate feedback from classmates and the instructor.

  • Dates: May 6 - 10 (full day)

Human Trafficking (DVST402)

This course will critically examine and contextualize the prevalent global crime of human trafficking and consider effective modes of prevention and response. It will examine the history, roots, and development of various forms of human trafficking internationally and domestically using several frameworks. In addition, it considers a variety of responses such as addressing related social and development issues, legal responses and system reform.

  • Dates: May 13 - 25 (mornings)

For More Information Contact: PovertyInstitute@ambrose.edu