The IIRP arose from two Pennsylvania social service agencies. In 2000, these two sister agencies, Buxmont Academy and the Community Service Foundation, spun off a new venture, the world's first graduate school devoted entirely to the teaching, research and dissemination of restorative practices. With roots in restorative justice, a way of looking at criminal justice that emphasizes repairing the harm done to people and relationships, restorative practices has the broader goal of proactively developing community, managing conflict, building relationships and increasing social capital. The field, as well as the institution, is also developing across national and disciplinary borders with the goal to restore community in an increasingly disconnected world.