DEARBORN — An associate’s degree in community leadership is now being offered at Henry Ford College to prepare students in making a positive impact on their community through career opportunities in community organization, policy advocacy and economic development.

The community leadership program at HFC provides students with credentials in academia. Students acquire skills and improve their talents to create a positive social change in communities.

The program is part of the Community Learning Partnership. Nonprofit and public sectors in southeastern Michigan are partners in this endeavor.  It guides students in creating a connection with their academic experience and the real world in community leadership.

Students in the program will obtain an associate’s degree in community leadership from HFC. The associate’s degree helps them prepare to minor in community studies at the University of Michigan – Dearborn. 

At HFC, students will gain hands-on experience through internships and involvement with community organizations, nonprofits and government agencies. Mentors from community members will guide the students.

HFC developed the program in conjunction with ACCESS, Cody-Rouge Community Action Alliance, Corporation for a Skilled Workforce, Detroit Employment Solutions Corp., Marygrove College, Southwest Solutions, the University of Michigan-Dearborn and Urban Neighborhood Initiatives.