What is Family Research?
At CRF, we recognize that families come in many diverse structures, including single-parent households and those of different sexual orientations, gender identities, and cultural backgrounds. We believe that families are best understood within the context of their social settings, through an intersectional lens that considers factors such as class, race, ethnicity, sexuality, gender, age, and ability. This inclusive approach ensures that all families—regardless of structure or identity—are represented and valued in our research. Moreover, we view research from all disciplines as essential to our mission, as it provides comprehensive insights into the complex realities families face.
Some of our recent areas of research and outreach:
- Springfield Prescription Produce Collaborative – a Food as Medicine program created in collaboration with Wellspring Cooperative and Baystate Health
- Greater Springfield Women’s Economic Security Hub Study – a research effort carried out with the Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts
- Methodology collaboration in grants on implementation of suicide prevention programs for Native Alaskan Communities
- Collaboration with National Collaborative for Philanthropic Young Women’ Initiatives
- Facilitating internships for high school STEM students in the community
Our Story
The Center for Research on Families (CRF) has a long history and deep roots at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Founded over forty years ago and supported by a generous endowment given in 1996 by Dorothy Dunklee Gavin ‘43 and Joseph G. Gavin Jr. In 2003, the original Center for the Family was transformed into today’s Center for Research on Families and has continued to grow in its importance and significance across the UMass Amherst campus and beyond.
The Center for Research on Families is supported by the Provost’s Office and the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Engagement. It is housed within the College of Natural Sciences, which provides administrative and operational support. The College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, where CRF was originally established, continues to be a foundational supporter. Key partners in CRF’s work represent colleges and centers from across the UMass Amherst campus. Additional generous support comes from endowments established by Dorothy and Late Joseph G. Gavin Jr. including the Edna Skinner and Tay Gavin Erickson Funds, and many other valued donors.
Our Support
CRF is supported by the Office of the Provost, the Edna Skinner Fund, Dorothy and Joseph G. Gavin Jr., and many other generous donors. The following colleges within UMass also support CRF: College of Natural Sciences, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, Riccio College of Engineering, College of Education, and Elaine Marieb College of Nursing.
