Guttmacher Institute
The Guttmacher Institute began its life in 1968 as a branch of Planned Parenthood. It carried the name Center for Family Planning Program Development during those early years. Alan F. Guttmacher served as president of Planned Parenthood before his death. Following his passing, the organization changed its name to honor him. The split from Planned Parenthood became official in 2007. Jonathan Wittenberg and Destiny Lopez now serve as co-presidents and co-CEOs.
Statistical models allow researchers to estimate abortion rates where data is restricted or illegal. This approach helps approximate numbers in places where abortions occur outside formal health care settings. The institute uses these methods internationally to understand reproductive health outcomes. Such estimates provide critical insights into regions with limited reporting systems. These figures help shape global discussions on sexual health and access.
State and national laws regarding contraception and abortion are tracked continuously by the institute. Records show restrictions that different states have placed on reproductive health services. Data collection includes how teens are affected by pregnancy and their use of contraception. The Washington, D.C., location serves as a hub for this ongoing monitoring work. This system ensures that policy changes are documented and analyzed in real time.
Planned Parenthood was the sole source of funding when the institute launched in 1968. By 2010, less than 1% of its budget came from that parent organization. Private foundations based in the United States now provide most of the financial support. International organizations like the World Health Organization and the World Bank also contribute funds. The MacArthur Foundation awarded $3.9 million between 1986 and 2015 through thirteen grants.
Operations extend beyond the United States into developing countries worldwide. Efforts focus on improving sexual health outcomes and expanding reproductive rights globally. Statistical models help estimate abortion numbers where legal barriers exist or data is missing. These initiatives aim to inform policy and improve access to essential health services. The work supports communities facing significant challenges in reproductive care availability.
The Guttmacher Institute maintains nonpartisan status despite advocating for women's reproductive rights. FactCheck notes that its statistics are widely cited by media outlets and political groups. Figures on abortion appear frequently across both sides of the political aisle. A Population Center grant from the US National Institutes of Health supported research innovation in 2013. Charity Navigator has given the highest four-star rating annually since 2010.
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Common questions
When did the Guttmacher Institute begin its operations?
The Guttmacher Institute began its life in 1968 as a branch of Planned Parenthood. It carried the name Center for Family Planning Program Development during those early years.
Who serves as co-presidents and co-CEOs of the Guttmacher Institute now?
Jonathan Wittenberg and Destiny Lopez now serve as co-presidents and co-CEOs of the organization. They lead the institute following the split from Planned Parenthood which became official in 2007.
Where is the headquarters location of the Guttmacher Institute based?
The Washington, D.C., location serves as a hub for ongoing monitoring work regarding state and national laws on contraception and abortion. This system ensures that policy changes are documented and analyzed in real time.
What percentage of the Guttmacher Institute budget came from Planned Parenthood by 2010?
By 2010, less than 1% of its budget came from the parent organization Planned Parenthood. Private foundations based in the United States now provide most of the financial support.
How does the Guttmacher Institute estimate abortion rates where data is restricted or illegal?
Statistical models allow researchers to estimate abortion rates where data is restricted or illegal. This approach helps approximate numbers in places where abortions occur outside formal health care settings.