Partnering for Impact in Chicago and Beyond
Learn more about Civic Engagement at the University of Chicago
Featured news
Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering course offers STEM pathway for City Colleges students
Students also receive advising around college readiness and admissions to help them prepare for transfer to four-year colleges, plus a $1,500 stipend.
Featured news
Polsky’s Pandemic Pivot: Supporting entrepreneurs with virtual programming in a challenging time
During the pandemic, more than 12,000 entrepreneurs have attended Polsky Center virtual events. All community members, whether or not they have a University of Chicago connection, can take advantage of many of Polsky’s free online services.
Featured news
New class of Collegiate Scholars helps readiness program reach largest ever enrollment
It looks a little different in the remote era, but with its just-admitted cohort, the Collegiate Scholars Program is supporting more high-achieving CPS high school students than ever
Featured news
$8 million commitment from AbbVie to help reduce healthcare disparities for Black communities on Chicago’s South Side
AbbVie's gift will help UChicago Medicine's Urban Health Initiative expand its local team of community health workers, provide more holistic healthcare to South Side residents, and build the capacity of community partner organizations through $250,000 annual grants.
Our areas of focus
Public 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 financial resources and expertise to foster entrepreneurship and create economic opportunities for community residents and local 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 19th, 2021 | 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Entrepreneurship Essentials (E2): HR 101
The Polsky Center is proud to present the new Entrepreneurship Essentials series. This series is designed to help you launch your startup successfully, with workshops ranging in everything from customer discovery, fundraising, marketing strategy, legal issues, and more.
