Being The Change: Positive Psychology and Community Based Learning

Are you ready to create positive change in yourself and in your community? The program focuses on building skills in leadership, advocacy, and psychology, while participating in meaningful community-based internships and projects. During the program, we will participate in the global observances of Season for Nonviolence, and practice daily choices that foster peace and wellbeing to support social transformation. This program will join the Community-Based Learning: Psychology, Communication and Civic Engagement program that started Fall 2025.

Academic Core (6 credits)

In the academic core, you will:

• Learn how principles from Positive Psychology, Peace Psychology, and Humanistic Psychology can support personal and collective wellbeing
• Develop advocacy skills in community settings
• Explore the science of well-being and resilience
• Apply psychological science to cultivate empathy, resilience, and active hope

Internships & Projects (2–10 credits)

Choose from a wide range of community-based opportunities, including but not limited to:

   • Supporting mental health or public health initiatives

   • Conducting oral histories with elders, artists, or organizers

   • Working in education, food security or cooperative development 

You’ll be guided by community mentors and supported by faculty and Evergreen’s Center for Community-Based Learning and Action (CCBLA) to  shape meaningful internships and projects.

Getting Started

Students should contact faculty before the quarter begins with a brief description of their proposed internship or project.
Internships in healthcare or mental health usually require a two-quarter commitment; options in other fields are available for a one-quarter commitment. If working with minors or vulnerable populations, start early to complete required background checks.

Who Should Join?

This program is ideal for students who:

•  Are eager to explore integrating theory with practice
•  Value collaborative learning and community engagement
•  Are ready to grow in communication, leadership, and facilitation skills

Connect With Us

To explore opportunities, contact Ellen Shortt Sanchez, CCBLA Director: shorttse@evergreen.edu or reach out to program faculty khannam@evergreen.edu

Anticipated Credit Equivalencies:

3-Psychology: Advocacy and Communication Skills

3- Social Science Writing

2-10- Internship or community project in chosen area