Cultivating Collaboration: Understanding Motivations and Overcoming Barriers in Civic Education Partnerships

This study examines the motivations, expectations, and barriers experienced by community stakeholders who participate in a civic education summer camp designed for middle school students. Using Self-Determination Theory and the Collaborative Advantage Framework, the research draws on qualitative data from interviews, reflections, and observations to understand why organizations and individuals engage with the program. Findings reveal that stakeholder participation is influenced by intrinsic motivations such as civic duty and youth empowerment, as well as extrinsic motivations like advancing organizational missions and increasing public visibility. Stakeholders also expressed expectations for meaningful engagement, cultural relevance, and clear communication, while identifying logistical challenges, power imbalances, and sustainability concerns as persistent barriers. The study contributes to the field of civic education by offering insight into how effective and equitable community partnerships can be fostered, highlighting the importance of aligning stakeholder values with program design to sustain collaborative impact.