The IOM Report on Advancing Opportunities for Clinical and Translational Research states that “community engagement is critical in all phases of clinical and translational research, from basic research to clinical practice and community and public health research.” To realize this goal we must recognize that the ability and willingness to participate in research must be equally developed and supported across the translational spectrum. Thus our Community and Collaboration Core proposes to enhance community engagement in research, build research capacity, and increase relevance and receptivity in the community while ensuring this effort is matched by expanding development and recognition of expertise in team and community-engaged research within our academic institution. Success in these areas will ensure that the goal of increasing multidisciplinary translational research from bench to community will be realized. Our specific strategies for community engagement and team science reflect the overall aims of our CTSA, to: 1) Catalyze Clinical and Translational Research, 2) Enhance Partnerships with Communities, 3) Foster and Support Scientific Collaboration, 4) Expand the Translational Workforce for the 21st Century, and 5) Cultivate Innovation in Research. Success across these strategies ensures community engagement is reflected in institutional strategic thinking, resulting in enhanced academic-community partnerships to accelerate collaborative research.