The Center for Civic & Community Engagement believes that every student deserves access to the resources, support and opportunities they need to thrive academically, personally and professionally. Through innovative campus initiatives and community partnerships, we work to reduce barriers to success while promoting healthier, more resilient individuals and communities.
Our work extends beyond addressing immediate needs. We seek to build systems that strengthen food security, financial stability, belonging, health and long-term community well-being.
Our Areas of Focus
Food Security
No student should have to choose between attending class and eating a healthy meal. The CCE coordinates initiatives that improve access to nutritious food while reducing food insecurity across campus.
Programs include:
The Pioneer Pantry, providing free groceries, hygiene products and fresh produce to students experiencing food insecurity. Students can place orders online for a Pioneer Pantry pick-up.
Produce Pop-Ups, offering fresh produce monthly free to the campus community.
The Pioneer Community Garden, supplying fresh produce while creating opportunities for sustainability education, volunteerism and community building.
The Nook Community Kitchen, providing a 24/7 space for resident and commuter students to prepare and store meals.
Hunger-Free Campus initiatives, including cooking classes in partnership with Café Momentum, awareness campaigns and SNAP benefit assistance.
Student Success
Many students face challenges beyond the classroom and college should be accessible to every student.
The CCE works collaboratively across the university to connect students with resources that support persistence, completion and overall well-being.
Programs we support include:
Bison Exchange campus thrift store, offering affordable clothing, professional attire and household goods while promoting sustainability and reducing financial barriers. Follow the store on Instagram to stay informed. Contact them at bisonexchangethriftstore@pointpark.edu.
Dorothy's Commencement Closet, providing graduation regalia to students in need, so every student can participate in one of the most important celebrations of their life, no matter their financial circumstances.
REACH: ReEntry & Completion Hub, supporting parenting students through personalized navigation, basic needs connections and coordinated services that help students persist to graduation.
Community Health
Healthy communities require collaboration.
The CCE partners with the Department of Human Services, nonprofits, schools and public agencies to support projects that improve health, wellness and quality of life throughout the Pittsburgh region.
Current initiatives include PCHE Basic Needs Community of Practice, youth mental health leadership, food access and collaborative convenings.
For these or any other basic needs, reach out directly to Heather Starr Fiedler, Ph.D., managing director of the Center for Civic and Community Engagement, at hstarr@pointpark.edu.