our story
Hood Research was founded in 1992 by Theo Broughton and Reggie Crawford as a public policy think tank dedicated to understanding the forces that shape communities, public institutions, and the lives of the people within them.
Hood Research believes that meaningful progress begins with understanding. The conditions we experience today did not happen by accident; they are the result of ideas, choices, policies, and decisions made over time. To understand the present, we must examine the past. To change the future, we must be willing to question what we have inherited, understand the choices before us, and make better decisions.
Our work is grounded in civic education, research, collaboration, and strategic thinking. We seek to expand the capacity of individuals and communities to think critically about public issues, recognize the consequences of public policy, and participate more effectively in the decisions that affect their lives.
Hood Research exists because communities are capable of doing better - but doing better requires more than good intentions. It requires knowledge, thoughtful inquiry, informed choices, and civic participation. We believe an empowered community is not simply one that has a voice, but one that understands how to use that voice to influence its future.
Understand -> Question -> Participate -> Influence
our founders
Theo Broughton
Theo is a trailblazer and member of the Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW). Her historic accomplishments, courageous projects, daring and brave pioneering spirit prove that she is a true warrior and shero.
Theo's outstanding contributions started in 1992 when she Co-Founded Hood Research with Reggie Crawford. In 1997 Theo expanded her impact into broadcasting. She began working at WMKM 1440 AM radio and later on WDTR 90.9 FM radio. In 2001, Theo became the host of "Feedback" on WHPR TV/33 providing a vital platform for community issues, civic engagement, and political accountability.
Theo is a community advocate. She is committed to speaking out against injustices. Theo is a Board member of the Bi-City Concerned Citizens Advisory Council. It is a coalition involving Detroit and Dearborn (Michigan) citizens recognized by the U.S. Department of Justice.
Reggie Crawford
To Be added
our advisors
Al Martin
To Be Added
Professor Michael Griggs
Professor in the African-American Studies department
at Wayne County Community College
Professor MICHAEL GRIGGS is an Instructor at Wayne County Community College District (WCCCD), a Real Estate Developer and Entrepreneur. Born in Detroit, Michigan, Michael completed his undergraduate and graduate degrees at the University of Detroit Mercy.
Michael has lectured at several colleges and universities in Michigan over the years. He has studied abroad in Egypt, learning the major achievements and history of ancient Africa.
Directory - Volunteers
Broughton, Michelle - volunteer
Cummings, Mark - cohost of Feedback
Hines, Keith - volunteer
Magee, Vera - volunteer & lifetime member
Mpenda, Thabiti - cohost of Feedback
Teutsch, Henry - volunteer, meeting moderator, web develop
Woolfork, Gladys - volunteer & lifetime member
