University of Southern Maine

Partnerships
Parkside Partnership

Faculty

Carol Doane MS, CCRN

The USM College of Nursing and Health Professions have had the opportunity to work with this community for several years. A strong collaborative relationship has developed between residents and students. Various activities have included health education programs in the schools; socialization programs aimed at the elder population; and working with families in a transitional housing center.

Geographically, Parkside is approximately 1 square mile, with boundaries of High Street, St. John Street, Congress Street to Park Avenue and Deering Oaks Park. It is on of the most densely populated areas in the state of Maine with a population of approximately 4,000. It is also the MOST DIVERSE population in the state, with a rich mixture of languages spoken. There is a turnover rate of about 40% every 2 years in this neighborhood, making for constant flux and ever changing health needs.

Being a member of this Partnership means CHOICE and FLEXIBILITY in terms of age group, health focus and hours for actual health interventions. The experience begins with the 3 Credit courses, which focuses on Community Assessment, in which the needs of the community and the group are identified and plans are solidified for actual interventions. The second course, also 3 Credits, is focused on Intervention and Evaluation. Students implement a health oriented activity/intervention and have the opportunity to evaluate it.

Students who enjoy working with diverse populations, who are willing to listen to what community members say THEY want and need, and are intrigued by the concept of community assessment will enjoy this partnership.

This partnership meets during the Fall and Spring.

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