Not only does the H-GEC have ongoing partnerships with a number of national and state organizations, it also seeks to develop relationships with local organizations to further its educational mission. The Sunnyside Community Health Center provides a venue for learners to visit with elders on an informal basis, and is the site of the community disaster preparedness workshops held for seniors. Other groups influenced by and offering teaching opportunities for the H-GEC are the Houston Police Department's Crisis Intervention Team, Meals-on-Wheels, the YWCA of Greater Houston and various religious and faith-based groups.

The H-GEC actively seeks opportunities for developing community ties. H-GEC faculty are available for both formal and informal talks to community groups, and organizations.