Section 1: Introduction

The Community-Engaged Research (CEnR) program promotes community-engaged research focused on improving health and wellness. It serves as a place for community members and organizations/agencies across Pennsylvania to connect with Penn State researchers. These partnerships work together to answer important questions that will benefit the overall health and wellness of communities.

CEnR Community Partner Toolkit

The CEnR Community Partner Toolkit is designed to introduce you, as a community partner, to community-engaged research (CEnR). You are a valuable part of research and study teams want your voice to be heard. We encourage you to use this toolkit to learn all about the ins and outs of community-engaged research and to learn about opportunities for you to work with researchers to contribute to healthier, happier communities.

Throughout this toolkit are wonderful examples of community-engaged research projects across Penn State. Many different approaches to community-engaged research require different levels of commitment and support. The ways presented here are some approaches that have been successful. Learn about how community partners have worked with Penn State researchers to perform meaningful research and make a valuable impact.

In addition to this toolkit, the CTSI team is here to assist community partners by offering a variety of training options and resources to best support CEnR partnerships. Our office can be reached at: CTSIengage@psu.edu. We look forward to working with you.

Partner Appreciation

We are grateful to our community partners representing the following organizations who reviewed and provided feedback on this toolkit development:

• Drexel Center for Non-Violence and Social Justice

• PSU Talent Search Program

• York County Food Bank

• Penn State Cancer Institute Office for Cancer Health Equity

• Big Bend Hospice

• Community Health Council of Lebanon County

• Lebanon Family Health Services