The Challenges and Coping Mechanisms in the Implementation of Community Outreach Activities in a Higher Educational Institution in the Philippines

The delivery of community development services by higher education institutions (HEIs) in the Philippines plays a significant role in addressing the social needs of marginalized communities. This study aims to explore the challenges and coping mechanisms experienced by community development coordinators and community leaders in implementing community outreach activities for the UST-AMV College of Accountancy, Espana, Manila, from 2020 to 2024. The study utilized a qualitative research design. The key informants, consisting of community development coordinators and community leaders, were purposively selected. The study's findings revealed that conflicting participant schedules, funding/budget constraints, and natural disasters were challenges program implementers faced during outreach activities. The study is significant for program implementers as it provides an understanding of community needs, helping to overcome obstacles and strengthen community engagement and long-term sustainability. The study recommends that the university continue to provide training and seminars to community leaders and community development coordinators to address future challenges in conducting outreach activities. Moreover, future research with a larger and more diverse participant group, including students, academic staff, and various community beneficiaries, can enrich the data.