Baha'i Institute for Community Development

The purpose of the Baha'i Institute for Community Development (BICD) is to develop and promote a distinct approach to community development that is based on the teachings of the Baha'i Faith and grounded in the experience of communities across the world that are striving to put these teachings into practice. BICD is committed to working with others regardless of race, religion or belief to build a better society for the future.

BICD is: - committed to the prosperity of all, recognizing that the welfare of individuals rests in the welfare of society at large - focused on transcending differences, harmonizing perspectives, and promoting the use of consultation for making decisions. - BICD emphasizes qualities and attitudes—such as trustworthiness, cooperation, and forbearance—that are building blocks of a stable social order. - champions rationality and science as essential for human progress. - advocates tolerance and understanding, and with the inherent oneness of humanity uppermost in their minds, views everyone as a potential partner to collaborate with, and - strives to foster fellow feeling even among groups who may traditionally have been hostile to one another. BICD is conscious of how the forces of materialism are at work around us. Our eyes are wide open to the many injustices that persist in the world, yet we are equally clear-sighted about the creative power of unity and humanity’s capacity for altruism. BICD sees the power that true religion possesses to transform hearts and overcome distrust, and so, with confidence in what the future holds, BICD is committed to labour to cultivate the conditions in which progress can occur. BICD encourages and supports our members to share their beliefs liberally with others, remaining respectful of the freedom of conscience of every soul, and they never impose their own standards on anyone.