Partnering for Impact in Chicago and Beyond
Learn more about Civic Engagement at the University of Chicago
Featured news
Taste of Hyde Park event introduces UChicago students to local eateries
On an early April weekend, nearly 100 UChicago students explored downtown Hyde Park’s vibrant dining scene, sampling menu items from several locally owned and operated restaurants through the 4th Taste of Hyde Park event.
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Featured news
MSI STEM Showcase shares the magic of science
PhD students bring science from lab to community with yearly demonstrations at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
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Featured news
UChicago Medicine marks one-year countdown to opening of AbbVie Foundation Cancer Pavilion
When the AbbVie Foundation Cancer Pavilion opens its doors in April 2027, it will stand as a cornerstone of UChicago Medicine's enterprise: a place where world-class physicians, scientists, care teams and support staff come together in new ways to advance cancer care and research.
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Featured news
Celebrate Earth Day with events at UChicago
From sustainability-themed campus tours to a park clean-up, get involved with green campus initiatives through April
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 local 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
May 7th, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
SBDC Small Business Week Event: Retail Readiness Workshop
Hosted by the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the Polsky Exchange, this workshop helps small businesses prepare their products for retail success.
