When a college is held in high esteem by the important and prominent leaders in the larger community, that community can be counted on in times of need or crisis. Therefore, community involvement, though clearly a high moral imperative, also grows out of the college's enlightened self-interest. In an effort to increase involvement in and with the larger community, Capilano College (CC) in Vancouver, British Columbia, sought to involve itself in an important community project which would have long-lasting positive outcomes for the community. The opportunity for involvement arose during British Columbia's recession of 1985. CC funded a feasibility study and then an economic development plan which gained the respect of local government and area business leaders. The successful implementation of the plan placed the college in high esteem. Having earned the respect of local governments and the local community, the college received funding from both sources for construction of a new gymnasium at the college. Encouraging faculty and staff to involve themselves in community projects of interest to them became another mechanism to raise the visibility of, and regard for, the college. Aspects of the curriculum, such as the labor studies program which educates and trains members of the trade union movement, has also served to increase community involvement and the college's positive image. Finally, an international student exchange program involving host families has helped to foster cross-cultural awareness in the community. Community involvement can take many forms and have many benefits and should be on the college's corporate agenda. (JMC)