As our nation struggles with a pandemic, housing and food insecurity, a strained social safety net, police brutality, unemployment, natural disasters, and racial discrimination, colleges and universities must play a critical role in engaging students with these issues through intentional projects that are designed in partnership with local municipalities. Representatives from two of California Campus Compact urban institutions with extensive experience partnering with or working for city government, along with one current local government representative, will share their reflections, recommendations, and lessons learned on how colleges can effectively partner and engage college students with local government. Presenters will share their perspectives on how to build thriving partnerships with local governments that reflect values of equity, justice, and inclusion.