Empowering Communities Through Service
Our name says it all — Community & College Partners Program. We partner with colleges, universities, and collaborate with others to address the needs of underserved communities. Our mission is to level the playing field, enabling these communities to compete for resources on an equal footing with larger cities that have more access to funding and support.
We work alongside private equity firms, federal agencies, and pro bono collaborators to help fund projects developed by students and community partners. By transforming innovative ideas into real-world solutions, we’re making a real and lasting impact on communities in need.
C2P2 understands that long-term issues require long-term support. As a dynamic 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, we are committed to meeting both current and emerging community needs. The greater our resources, the greater the support we can provide, creating sustainable change and opportunity for those who need it most.
Communities Colleges Corporate
Building Back Better
Your college curriculum comes alive when students apply their learning in real-world situations. Design a practicum, internship, or capstone project, and students will gain valuable experience and make a real change. C2P2 identifies and coordinates projects so you can choose one that matters to you and benefits the communities we serve.
Environmental Impact
Get the help you need. Community & College Partners Programs offers free technical assistance. Identify your needs, and we’ll connect you with a team from our network of colleges, universities, and NGOs to help you compete for the resources necessary to bring your vision to life.
Planning & Strategy
Your corporate contributions go further with C2P2. Funds for community outreach not only benefit the community but also support real-world learning opportunities for students. Everyone wins when you partner with us.
Our Name is Our Mission
Corporate investments in C2P2 support two vital causes: They provide technical assistance to underserved communities and offer hands-on learning experiences to students. These investments of time and money empower communities and help students become better prepared for the workforce. They also support projects that uplift neighborhoods, enhance education, and benefit everybody.
C2P2 is committed to inclusivity and does not engage in discriminatory practices in hiring, partnerships, or the selection of communities and projects. We focus on serving underserved communities and actively seek participation from the most qualified partners.
C2P2’s model has proven successful, with over 150 projects completed across more than 20 states. As we continue to grow, we look forward to expanding our impact to communities across all 50 states and internationally.
One of a Kind - In Their Words
Andros is home to the largest pine forest, largest marine nursery system in The Bahamas, largest flats and bonefish population in the world. C2P2 has been a tremendous support in a number of key ways in our fight to prevent a 5000-acre limestone mining proposal. C2P2 assisted in bringing together a group of scientists from the US and Canada as well.
As President of The Bahamas Sportfishing & Conservation Association, we look forward to a continued positive working relationship with C2P2 and Mike Burns in the protection of these precious resources of The Bahamas that are of global importance.
Prescott Smith, President of The Bahamas Sportfishing & Conservation Association
“Mike Burns and his Community & College Partnership Program (C2P2) is a significant resource for facilitating our academic collaborative partnerships. C2P2, most recently connected the Overbrook Environmental Education Center to Perdue University who worked with our center to codesign a solar generated irrigation system for our community-based green house. It was an absolute pleasure to be connected with a university partner who shared our mission of providing environmental and climate solutions to communities who need the most.”
Jerome Shabazz,Executive Director Overbrook Environmental Education Center
At the start of my senior workshop, I knew I would be allowed the opportunity to apply the academic knowledge I had gained over the past four years of university. However, I was not expecting the opportunity to expand my set of skills, challenge my beliefs on sustainability that had been learned from a textbook, and most importantly, connect with a community that worked alongside us with determination, hope, and passion. My experience with the Jackson communities this semester reminded me that love for one’s community is powerful enough to enact change for the better. I will always be thankful for the kindness and faith that the community members in Jackson, Mississippi showed our team throughout the project.
I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the transformative impact of C2P2’s endeavors. The crucial resources and support to these communities has not only improved their quality of life but has also opened doors to new opportunities. The educational advancements, enhanced communication networks, and economic growth that have emerged from these initiatives are truly remarkable.
Your collaborative approach to problem-solving and engagement with local stakeholders has been instrumental in the success of these projects. By involving the community in decision-making processes, C2P2 has ensured the sustainability of our solutions and fostered a sense of ownership and pride within the villages.