Community Projects
COMMUNITY PROJECTS
We CU partners with local organizations to promote positive changes in our community and create impactful learning experiences for students.
Project matching
The Community Learning Lab (CLL) in the School of Social Work works with more than 200 community organizations in Champaign County to fulfill community needs through student projects. CLL and We CU work in close partnership to match all community project submissions with classes, student groups, and individual students.
Community organizations will continue to work with and hear from CLL at ssw-cll@illinois.edu. The CLL and We CU partnership expands project matching to students and courses across the entire university to better meet the needs of our community partners.
Students may also self-identify projects and log their hours as part of We CU.
Types of projects
Students will complete a variety of remote, community-based projects from campus or from anywhere across the country. Projects will require diverse strengths and skillsets, and may be matched through service learning classes, unpaid internships, and fellowships.
Submit your project
- Complete an application as a community organization or service learning faculty.
- Discuss project options with the We CU team. Students will either sign up directly for service opportunities, or we will match community partners will faculty seeking a specific match (or matches) for their class.
- The Community Learning Lab will introduce community partners and student or faculty matches with clearly stated and mutually agreed upon parameters.
- Community partners and student or faculty matches communicate directly to complete the project.
We CU offers continued support to students with trainings on professionalism, anti-racism, and intercultural communication as well as service reflection opportunities and mini grants to offset costs associated with service activities. Students may also take advantage of We CU office hours to ask questions, discuss concerns, and more.
Hope Lives Youth Ranch
Students will help find grant opportunities and write proposals to address large infrastructure needs at the ranch. Learn how a non-profit program operates while adding grant writing to your resume.
Soul Care Urban Retreat Center
Research those in the campus and local community who may benefit from Soul Care offerings and assist in the creation and distribution of materials. Build experience in communications, PR, and marketing.
C-U Safe Routes to School
Research the features and elements important for a fun and educational traffic garden to teach bicycle and roadway safety and assist in writing a proposal. Your service helps to create a safer Champaign-Urbana.
City of Urbana
Photograph the vibrant neighborhoods, business corridors, and parks of Urbana which will highlight the City's unique offerings. Put your photography and editing skills to use to promote a place you love!
Uniting Pride of Champaign County
Assist in the development of curriculum and educational training materials on a variety of LGBTQ+ topics in Champaign County to build a more LGBTQ-affirming community.
McKinley Foundation
Plant, weed, and harvest fresh produce at the McKinley Giving Garden for the clients of the Garden Hills Food Pantry and others with limited access to healthy food. No experience necessary!