Before joining the faculty of Wayne State University in 1993, Professor Ann Rosegrant Alvarez held community organizing and administrative social work positions in the Philippines, Louisiana and Michigan. Her research and teaching interests include community practice, multi-cultural community organizing, feminist practice, international social work, social work history and policy issues. She is currently working on a project to improve life opportunities and increase use of family planning services among African-American youth and young adults in Detroit. Professor Alvarez is also collaborating on a locally funded project titled "Building Bridges For Healthy Communities in Detroit", developing education and training for multi-cultural organizers.