Themission of the ACORN Institute (AI) is toempower low- and moderate-income people to improve their communities. AI is founded on the belief that low- and moderate-income people shouldreceive equal services and have a voice and a role in the policies andinstitutions that have an impact on their lives. To accomplish this, AI provides leadership development and training in low- andmoderate-income communities and technical and research assistance tograssroots community groups. Additionally, AI serves as the lead agency for variousprojects that fall under its mission.