Community engagement

When University of Minnesota researchers and local organizations collaborate, they can address health issues in ways that are truly relevant to the community.
CTSI’s Community Engagement to Advance Research and Community Health (CEARCH) team provides infrastructure and support so University researchers and community representatives—including nonprofits, clinics, physicians, and advocates—can work together.
How we involve communities

As researchers
Our grants and guidance help fuel research partnerships built on trust and accountability.

As leaders
Community members and the University unite to govern and shape our programs and initiatives.

As experts
We create opportunities for people to share their perspectives on the health issues that impact them.
Grants
Funds for community-University partnerships stimulates new research in community and population health.

Community Health Authentic Talks Sessions
Community Health Authentic Talk (CHAT) sessions are virtual conversations which elevate and center the lived experiences of community members to assist researchers in their health-related research.
- Arms researchers with powerful insights that can inform their studies.
- Gives Minnesotans a meaningful way to contribute and learn more about research.

Workshops on community-engaged research
Gain skills and knowledge in community-engaged research by attending our free workshops.


Training modules: Equity-grounded community-engaged research
Learn how to pursue a community-academic research partnership that drives meaningful change.
Best practices, tools, and other resources
Explore free, online resources for community-University research teams, such as:
- Best practices
- Analysis tools
- Dissemination guidance
- Training materials
- Checklists
- Guiding principles
“CTSI support formalized our University-community partnership, which was critical to our ability to make a nationwide impact with our work.”
Grantee Katy Kozhimannil, PhD, whose work improved access to doula care for women across the country.

One of the doulas trained through Dr. Kozhimannil’s program supports a new mother during her labor and delivery.
Contact
[email protected]
612-625-CTSI (2874)