Empowering Engagement: Collaborative Civic Involvement

Catalog description

This community-partnership course is designed to introduce students to the field of community engagement and, in particular, to our local communities: the City of Yonkers and Westchester County. Community engagement is defined as “the process of working collaboratively with and through groups of people affiliated by geographic proximity, special interest, or similar situations in order to address issues affecting the well-being of those people. This process is a powerful vehicle for bringing about environmental and behavioral changes that will improve the health of the community and its members. It often involves partnerships and coalitions that help mobilize resources and influence systems; change relationships among partners; and serve as catalysts for changing policies, programs, and practices" (CDC, 1997). Upon successfully completing this course, students will be equipped to: become familiar with the history and culture of Sarah Lawrence College, the City of Yonkers, and Westchester County; be able to identify community-based initiatives that they are passionate about; know how to conduct a community-needs assessment; and know how to create a project proposal that includes community partnership. By acquiring new knowledge and skill sets, students will experience increased civic empowerment impacting not only the College campus but also the local communities. Students will actively participate in community engagement, enhancing community partnerships by designing a transformative community project. Through self- reflection, guest speakers, special projects, and collaborations with local community partners, this course will offer a range of opportunities for students to explore and strengthen their voices, interests, and skills as engaged citizens. SLC EmbeddEd: Building a Professional Identity PRAC 2125 Meghan Jablonski Sophomore and Above, Small Lecture—Spring |…