Partnering for Impact in Chicago and Beyond
Learn more about Civic Engagement at the University of Chicago
Featured news
Center for Effective Government debuts Civic Leadership Academy’s 2025 cohort
The latest class of local nonprofit and government fellows embarks on interdisciplinary leadership development program in service of effective governance.
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Featured news
Community of Care initiative piloted in partnership with Cook County offers Chicago violence prevention workers professional insights and sense of community
The Office of Civic Engagement and Cook County Justice Advisory Council’s leadership development initiative has brought together nearly 200 individuals from 150 violence prevention organizations for a unique 14-month experience
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Featured news
Crime Lab analysis of Chicago's 2024 crime trends finds decrease in homicides and shootings and increase in shooting lethality
In a recently-released analysis of Chicago crime trends in 2024, the University of Chicago Crime Lab found signs of progress as well as persistent safety inequities.
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Featured news
Sneakers to Scrubs program guides kids from courtside to classroom
UChicago medical school student-athletes aim to identify, inspire youths considering medical careers.
Read moreOur areas of focus
Community Safety
Through research, evidence-based programming, and direct service, UChicago is working with community partners on the South Side and beyond to build safer communities, save lives, and heal traumatic emotional wounds inflicted by violence.
K-12 Education
We demonstrate our commitment to urban education by developing and investing in programs and initiatives that serve children from pre-K through high school and by working with teachers and principals to improve our city’s school system.
Community Health
UChicago is committed to promoting health equity and improving access to care on the South Side, so all residents have the opportunity to thrive.
Economic Opportunity and Entrepreneurship
We leverage UChicago’s role as the largest private employer and purchaser of goods and services on the South Side to foster entrepreneurship and create economic opportunities for community residents and local small businesses.
Civic Infrastructure
To strengthen Chicago’s civic infrastructure, we offer community-based training for emerging leaders and help to build local organizations’ capacity to grow, thrive, and achieve their missions.
Arts and Culture
As a partner in the South Side’s rich and storied arts community, we work to provide cultural opportunities, resources, and programs that reflect our community, resonate across the city, and are renowned around the world.
Upcoming event
Jan 30th, 2025 | 6:00 p.m.
"Picture an Astronomer" Series Kick-Off Event
The University of Chicago Department of Astronomy & Astrophysics and the Kavli Institute for Cosmological Physics kick off their Picture an Astronomer event series with an evening of faculty talks, demos, and more.
