Next Innovative Clinical Research
From the Community,
For the Community
Mission
To advance health equity by increasing health literacy, expanding access to care, and reducing disparities in underserved communities through education, community engagement, and preventative health services that foster informed decision-making and improved health outcomes.
Foundation Overview
The Next Innovative Clinical Research (Next ICR) Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to advancing health equity through education, community engagement, and workforce development programs. Our mission centers on increasing health literacy, reducing health disparities, and creating sustainable career pathways for underserved communities in Chicago and beyond.
Vision Statement
We envision a future where every community has the knowledge, resources, and representation needed to achieve optimal health. In this future, clinical research is inclusive, accessible, and powered by diverse voices from the very communities it serves. Medical breakthroughs benefit everyone equitably, and health literacy empowers individuals to make informed choices — advancing a truly just and equitable healthcare system for all.
Target Population
Primary Focus
Communities with untapped potential that have historically faced barriers to equitable health access and educational opportunity across all demographics.
Inclusive of
Black, Hispanic, Asian, and other populations whose perspectives and leadership have been underrepresented within the healthcare sector.
Geographic Focus
Chicago and surrounding areas,
with potential for expansion.
Our Strategic Framework
The Next ICR Foundation advances health equity through two core pillars: Education and Careers.
Together, these pillars create equitable pathways to health literacy, inclusive clinical research, and community empowerment — driving medical innovation that leads to optimal health for all.
Pillar One: Education
Empowering communities and healthcare providers with the knowledge and tools to achieve better health outcomes.
Community Education
We bring healthcare awareness directly into neighborhoods through:
- Health fairs and community wellness events
- Culturally tailored workshops on chronic diseases and clinical research awareness
- Free health screenings (blood pressure, glucose, BMI)
- Take-home “Health Kits” to support ongoing care
We meet people where they are — in schools, churches, and community centers — making prevention and care accessible to everyone.
Provider Education
We equip healthcare professionals to serve diverse communities with cultural competence and equity.
- Disease-specific continuing education (e.g., sickle cell, diabetes)
- Clinical trial awareness and patient enrollment training
- Cultural responsiveness and equity-in-care workshops
We close the gap between providers’ understanding and communities’ access to quality care.
Pillar Two: Careers
Creating pathways to healthcare and clinical research careers for residents of underserved communities — those often underrepresented both in trials and in the industry itself.
Next ICR Workforce Development Program
A high-touch, transformative training experience that turns lived experience into career opportunity — preparing participants for success in the healthcare and clinical research sectors.
Program Highlights:
- 12-week Clinical Research Coordinator training
- Hands-on learning and industry-recognized certifications
- Professional development and workplace readiness coaching
- Comprehensive wraparound supports (case management, transportation, childcare, tutoring)
- Paid stipends honoring participants’ time and expertise
Impact in Action
Our program directly addresses three urgent needs:
- The shortage of diverse clinical research professionals
- Barriers to access and representation within healthcare and research
- The need for economic mobility through career pathways in a growing field
We’re not just training professionals — we’re cultivating homegrown healthcare leaders who transform health outcomes in their own communities.
Our Promise
We promise to invest in healthcare solutions that are from the community, for the community.
Our commitment is to build equitable pathways to health literacy—empowering communities with limited access to quality healthcare education and underrepresented to gain the knowledge, access, and opportunities they deserve. We are dedicated to ensuring clinical research is inclusive, accessible, and community-driven, guided by the voices and experiences of those it serves.
Together with the community, we will continue advancing health equity until it’s not just a vision, but a shared reality for all.