Industrial Areas Foundation

The Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF) was a pioneering community organizing group established in 1940 by Saul Alinsky in Chicago. Alinsky wanted to build a grassroots movement that would empower working-class communities to advocate for their rights and improve their living conditions. Distinct from other labor movements of the time, the IAF emphasized broad-based coalitions including religious congregations, labor unions, and civic associations or organizations. The IAF’ became a model for other organizing group across the US.