May 14, 1998 For Immediate Release

The University of Northern British Columbia Senate has approved a proposal for a new UNBC research institute that will work with local agencies to identify and address local social issues.

The UNBC Institute for Social Research and Evaluation is being financially supported by the University, the City of Prince George, the Northern Interior Regional Health Board, Human Resources Development Canada, the Regional District of Fraser Fort George, the Canadian Red Cross, and the local United Way. The new Institute will provide these agencies with the capacity to conduct a wide variety of action-oriented social research and program evaluation.

As part of the research agenda, two surveys will be conducted each year on quality of life and various social issues. There will also be an annual two-day workshop to train the personnel of the partner agencies on social research, evaluation, and performance measurement.

"The work of the Institute will monitor and forecast changes in the social, economic, and political climate of the city and the broader region," says UNBC professor Alex Michalos, one of the authors of the proposal. "We think all of northern BC could take advantage of the work of the Institute and welcome partners in other communities. The information will help local businesses and the agencies that deliver public services."

Dr Michalos and fellow UNBC professor Bruno Zumbo have recently completed a criminal victimization survey in the City. An upcoming survey will focus on local access to health care services.

UNBC also has research centres focusing on sustainable forestry, northern land use, child welfare, and women's health.