Home Campus-Community Partnerships Introduction to Campus-Community Partnerships

Introduction to Campus-Community Partnerships

The demand for post-secondary student mental health services and supports is increasing. Campuses and community health organizations are struggling to meet this growing demand. Meanwhile, individual campuses and community agencies have unique skills, resources and/or approaches that would benefit other partners.

Developing and strengthening partnerships between community mental health agencies and public post-secondary institutions can enable all service providers to better support the needs of post- secondary students.

Working together we believe more can be done to improve the mental health and wellness of students. The Centre for Innovation in Campus Mental Health has created this toolkit to support the development of campus-community partnerships.

Introduction

Key outcomes of positive campus-community partnerships may include:

  • increased number of students served
  • decreased wait lists
  • improved referrals to community agencies
  • increased service options on and off campus
  • improved transitions for students needing support

In the pages that follow, post-secondary institutions and community agencies may find useful information on:

  • Types of campus/community partnerships
  • Elements of an effective partnership
  • Steps to building a collaborative partnership
  • Benefits and risks of partnerships
  • Tips for successful partnerships
  • Supports from the Centre for Innovation in Campus Mental Health
  • Additional resources

Together we can help to create a healthier post-secondary campus for all.

Hands Together

Guide: PDF Version