MISION
The Center for Health Excellence & Community Empowerment (CHECE) prepares and equips public, nonprofit, and private sector entities to effectively engage underrepresented urban constituencies in co-creating solutions that foster healthy, safe, and thriving communities. CHECE strengthens individual and organizational capacity to participate in collaborative partnerships, health and related research and assessment, policy development and decision-making, service delivery innovation, and effective communication. CHECE fosters meaningful, lasting partnerships that drive systemic change. CHECE builds upon a proven effective community engagement model developed by the Office of University-Community Partnerships (OUCP) and the scholarship and knowledge-based services that are the hallmarks of the School of Public Affairs and Administration (SPAA).
VISION
CHECE envisions vibrant, just, and healthy urban communities where residents, institutions, and leaders collaborate as equal partners to build inclusive systems. We strive for a future grounded in mutual respect and reciprocity, where shared knowledge, resources, and power are leveraged to ensure collective well-being. Our vision is a society where sustained, community-led partnerships serve as the foundation for equity and transformative success.
OUR CORE VALUES
Rooted in CHECE’s signature Transdisciplinary Intergenerational Community Engagement Model (TICEM)
Inclusive Engagement
We actively involve community members at all stages of program development and research, ensuring their voices shape design, implementation, and outcomes.
Trust-Building
We prioritize building and sustaining trust among all stakeholders through transparency, consistency, and shared purpose.
Asset-Based Approach
We recognize and leverage existing community strengths, resources, and opportunities to support sustainable impact.
Reciprocity
We foster mutual benefit and shared responsibility among stakeholders, promoting balanced and respectful collaboration.
Sustainable Partnerships
We cultivate long-term, meaningful relationships that support lasting community transformation.
Intergenerational Collaboration
We create opportunities for intergenerational learning and leadership, recognizing its role in building continuity and resilience.
Mutual Respect
We honor the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of all individuals, regardless of age, education, or social status.
Integrated Expertise
We value and incorporate both academic knowledge and lived experience, integrating community-based and scholarly expertise.
Contextual Responsiveness
We remain attentive to community context and committed to fostering change grounded in lived realities.
Shared Learning
We align goals and actions to generate usable knowledge for all stakeholders, supporting collective understanding and application.
Neutral Facilitation
When appropriate, we engage neutral conveners to minimize bias, support equitable dialogue, and facilitate effective implementation.