Amelia Risinit and Emily Atassi

Abstract:

Our research sought to study the positive and negative effects of community-engaged partnerships. Much of the research that has been done on community-engaged partnerships only highlights their success and does not shed light on the negatives or failures that may arise. This paper seeks to fill this gap in the literature and explain these red and green flags in community-engaged partnerships and how they can be navigated. These partnerships were defined as a partnership between a university and a nonprofit community partner, with undergraduate students representing the university in the partnership. A qualitative analysis was conducted by interviewing current and former students and administrators who are part of a community-engaged program at Siena College. The results indicated that unclear communication, inconsistency in partner meetings, disconnect about the project goals, and a partner’s noncommitment to student growth were all red flags that should be spotted by a student, and brought up to their advisors. This article concludes by explaining the importance of this research, and the harm that could arise if these red flags are not addressed. If noticed early enough, the community partner and the university (students) could work together to find a solution, and avoid a failed partnership.