Collaborative practice in low income communities: University, agency, public school partnerships

Abstract

Summary Children and families in high risk low income communities are facing increasing stress due to rising poverty, increasing violence and isolation, and decreasing resources. Community based, family support centers are nationally recognized as vital in serving high risk communities. Yet, successful collaborative ventures are difficult, funding is problematic, and informed evaluation is elusive. This article will review the efforts of leaders in local government and business to come together with faculty from an urban university, public education, private non‐profit family serving agencies, and child advocates to build centers through a recommitment of resources. The role of the university in the development, implementation, and evaluation of community collaboratives is presented. Cross‐site comparison allows a discussion of the factors contributing to successful collaboration.