Community Development is a fundamental responsibility of citizenship in a democracy. It usually involves a collaboration in which there is a mutually beneficial, two-way interaction between two different units. Government, civic organizations, social service groups and educational institutions can help provide the goods and services members of a society expect to uphold a quality of life as well as help move a community forward. This process occurs through the dedicated work of individuals who provide countless hours of service with little or no remuneration; whose only compensation in many instances is a personal sense of accomplishment that can only be realized through dedicated service. Those individuals who choose to become involved in acts of public engagement are the true citizens of the community.
Community Development at KU
Kutztown University values its relationship with its neighboring communities. Community development allows for the opportunity to build effective and collaborative partnerships between the University and interested parties. It feels very strongly that community development is an important component in a student's overall development and has made a commitment as stated in its Vision Statement:
Students today have the desire, energy and ability to make a real difference in their communities. Community development offers the opportunity for real world experience. Many faculty and staff participate in government, school district leadership and other aspects of public service. It offers a unique opportunity for students and faculty to get involved in a tangible way by integrating community service projects with classroom learning. Community development engages students in the educational process, using what they learn in the classroom to solve real-life problems.
While the University does not take credit for the personal commitments members of the University community make, the University is dedicated in developing opportunities and programs for students to explore the concept of civic responsibility.
