Our Mission

The Butler Institute for Families at the University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work seeks to enhance the well being of children, youth and families through research, education, training and consultation. The Institute is a resource for building professionalism and discovering effective practices and policies for child and family programs.

About Us

Throughout its 75-year history, the University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work has administered countless externally funded projects targeting children and families. These efforts preceded and provided the impetus for establishment of the Institute in 1994. The Institute, which was recently named the "Erna and Brad Butler Institute for Families, is nationally recognized for its leadership and collaborative work at the national, state and local level in evaluation, research, technical assistance, education and training.

The Butler Institute brings together researchers, practitioners, public and private service system experts and community members to engage in program evaluation and research, examine outcomes, provide technical assistance and training to administrators, practitioners, families and community leaders. The Institute works in collaborative partnership with leaders, policy makers and legislators to address issues facing children, youth and families and to improve the quality of public human services programs across the United States.