Harmony Co-op recently partnered with Bemidji State University (BSU) on a project grounded in engaging the community. Bemidji State's Center for Professional Development sent a community engagement survey to BSU staff and faculty to be redeemed at Harmony Co-op for a drawing of one of six $50 co-op gift cards.
Debbie Guelda, Director of BSU's Center for Professional Development says, "The purpose of community engagement is the partnership of college and university knowledge and resources with those of the public and private sectors to enrich scholarship, research, and creative activity; enhance curriculum, teaching and learning; prepare educated, engaged citizens; strengthen democratic values and civic responsibility; address critical societal issues; and contribute to the public good."
The cooperative philosophy emphasizes collaboration and friendship to create and sustain a happy, healthy community. It is fulfilling to know that through this partnership, Harmony can contribute to the powerful work that Bemidji State seeks to do throughout our community.
"The first step of building this partnership is to assess what the perceptions of community engagement are on the BSU campus via a survey." Guelda continues, "In spring 2018 we will do a similar survey within the community of Bemidji. By gathering this information we will be able to move forward in developing and strengthening relationships between BSU and the community of Bemidji."
BSU's vision statement charges the university to cultivate engaged leaders who facilitate transformative change in our communities and their mission is to create opportunities and capacities to be transformative citizens, volunteers, professionals, and co-creators of our communities.
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Social Media Links:
Twitter:@HarmonyCoop
Instagram: @harmonyfoodcoop
Facebook: @Harmony Natural Foods Co-op
Twitter: @BemidjiState
Instagram: @bemidjistate
Facebook: Bemidji State University