Strategic Community Partnerships, Philanthropy, and Nongovernmental Organization

Book excerpt: This important book focuses on particular aspects of the development and implementation of community partnerships based in - and focused on - neighborhoods, municipalities, and regions. Throughout the book, David J. Maurrasse stresses the importance of philanthropy and representation from different types of organizations across public, private, and nongovernmental spectrums. In observing these collaborative efforts both in the US and various countries including Colombia, Malawi, England, India and Australia, two dynamics are emphasized: the role of private philanthropic institutions and their resources in facilitating the creation and continuation of these partnerships, along with the role of nongovernmental organizations as important enduring institutions in localities that are not, historically, considered as agents of community and economic development. It provides an evolving perspective on community partnerships particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and racial and income inequity, introducing the geographical, historical and cultural context behind these. Furthermore, the author defines and describes various roles in community partnerships and offers suggestions to help leverage these. Providing insightful case studies on the topic, this book will be key reading for practitioners in the field of community engagement at nonprofit institutions, such as universities, hospitals and philanthropic organizations. It will also be of use for academic researchers focusing on community studies and strategic partnerships.