Better Together

This is the dramatic story behind the transformation of Duke University from an isolated, exclusive institution to the dynamic, civically engaged campus that exists today. Better Together examines the first decade of the Duke–Durham Neighborhood Partnership (DDNP) and its involvement with Project HOPE, six quality, community-based afterschool programs. The author uses case studies and extensive interviews with university and community leaders to describe the development of this successful partnership. The text answers many frequently asked questions about how to create partnerships and includes a range of programming activities that educators and community organizers can use to improve their work with all children, especially low-income minority youth.

Book Features:

• An analysis of the risks and benefits of university–community partnerships aimed at solving the serious social issue of closing the achievement gap.
• A model that can be replicated to create positive alternatives for low-income minority youth.
• Case studies supported by documentation practices that were the result of the evaluation requirements of multiple funding sources.
• The perspectives of project staff, community partners, and student participants.

Barbara C. Jentleson is an assistant professor of the practice in the Program in Education at Duke University. From 2002 to 2010 she was the Director of Project HOPE (Holistic Opportunities Plan for Enrichment).

"A must-read for educators and policymakers who care about improving student performance."
—John Burness, Franklin & Marshall College