Academics and Nonprofits: Collaborative Partnering for Evidence-Informed Practice

Abstract

This case study highlights the academic-nonprofit practice partnership between one social work faculty researcher and the executive director of a local domestic violence shelter. Initiated by the academic researcher in 2017, the resultant research project has informed the local domestic violence shelter's plan of services, supported funding requests for both current and new services, and provided the academic partner with an additional potential statewide research project partner. Research outcomes to date include a detailed report to the shelter board of directors, a statewide research presentation, and a local poster presentation. This case study discusses the process of developing the collaborative partnership and the lessons learned.

Stronger together: Developing research partnerships with social impact organizations

“…The outcomes of academic research partnerships can lead to increased credibility with community and societal stakeholders, expanded funding opportunities, and policy changes (Desrosiers & Kim, 2019). SIOs also value the outcomes of research arising from academic and SIO partnerships because research often uncovers and validates promising practices.…”

“…As academic and SIO partners may have both individual and joint research goals, it is important to carve out meaningful outcomes for each partner through discussion and shared understanding. SIOs might seek partnerships that provide data and associated insights related to the efficiency of processes, internal or community needs, or the effectiveness of services provided (Desrosiers & Kim, 2019). Academics, on the other hand, are more likely to focus on uncovering generalizable knowledge, the likes of which is published in academic journals.…”