Credit Language
EN 10: Community Partnerships – version 2.2
Frequently Asked Questions
How has this credit changed from STARS 2.1 to 2.2?
Minor edits were made. Some language has been edited for clarity and greater international relevance, and the distinction between sustainability-focused and sustainability-related partnerships is clarified in alignment with other credits. A comprehensive list of differences can be found in the 2.2 Summary of changes.
What is the definition of a formal community partnership?
The intent of the credit is to highlight formal partnerships with community organizations, rather than institutional initiatives that benefit the community. Formal partnerships are purposeful, lasting, mutually beneficial relationships with external stakeholders to work together to understand and address the core problems facing local communities.
Can community partnerships with individuals or student groups count for this credit?
No, in order to count for this credit, the partnership being claimed must be formal at the institutional level; it is not sufficient if individuals or student groups form a partnership in the community.
Is material and/or financial support from the institution required?
Yes, for each partnership the institution must provide material and/or financial support. The descriptive field must clearly provide information to affirm how the institution supports the partnership materially and/or financially.
What kind of documentation is required for this credit?
The descriptive response provided must provide information about the following:
- How the partnership simultaneously supports all three dimensions of sustainability and
- How vulnerable populations and underrepresented groups are engaged in strategic planning, decision-making, implementation and review.
Resources, Templates & Tools
- Community partnerships inventory. Download Excel file or copy Google Sheet. Use or adapt this template to document community partnerships for sustainability and, optionally, track linkages to the SDGs.
- Sample keywords to help identify sustainability challenges (derived from the Earth Charter and SDG targets). Use or adapt to conduct a preliminary keyword search of partnerships. The presence of a keyword may or may not indicate that a sustainability challenge is addressed. Additional analysis is required.
- SDG targets
Example Responses
- Arizona State University – The three partnerships referenced are formal at the institution level. All affirmative responses are well supported. Good reporting example for large institutions.
- Chandler-Gilbert Community College – Good detail provided, and all affirmative responses are well supported. Good reporting example for associate colleges.
- City University of New York, John Jay College of Criminal Justice – Good detail provided, and all affirmative responses are well supported. Good reporting example for special focus institutions (criminal justice/public policy focus)
Common Issues Identified During Review
- Intent of the credit is to highlight formal partnerships with community organizations, rather than institutional initiatives that benefit the community. Partnerships between individuals affiliated with an institution, or with student/faculty groups are not sufficient in the absence of an institution-level partnership.
- Affirmative responses must be supported by information provided in descriptive fields.