Service Learning

Since 1994, the University of Tennessee Community Partnership Center (CPC) has developed, with the assistance of UT faculty and staff, a variety of relationships with groups that represent the interests of low-resource or marginalized communities in this region.

Our mission is to foster equitable research and action partnerships, connecting the local Knoxville community with University resources and expertise. These collaborations can increase the application of University faculty and student research to the critical issues and problems facing us all. To broaden our efforts in building these collaborations, the CPC has recently enlarged our advisory council in a CPC Advisory Group (CPCAG). This group serves not only as an advisory council, but also as a place where university and community can connect in meaningful and mutually beneficial partnerships. 

The CPCAG includes faculty members, from a variety of colleges and departments, and community members, all of whom share an interest in and capacity to participate in collaborative partnerships. The purpose of the group is to assist CPC in linking the university and community in meaningful community-based and collaborative partnership opportunities. The group benefits from networking opportunities provided by CPC's community links and by sharing their own contacts. CPCAG is a place for faculty and community members to discuss best practices, opportunities for students to experience their field outside the classroom, past examples of collaborative and participatory efforts, and to plan for new collaborations.