Community Impact

Making a Difference Together

Community Impact students really appreciate having the opportunity to serve in the community surrounding Columbia University. It has really made a difference in their college experiences. We hope to serve the community for many years to come."
- Sonia Reese, Executive Director of Community Impact

In partnership with more than 100 community organizations and agencies, Community Impact (CI) provides services to more than 8,000 residents in Harlem, Washington Heights and Morningside Heights every year. Almost 1,000 Columbia students volunteer in an array of community services programs, providing food, clothing, shelter, educational services, and companionship to local residents.

Community Impact's many programs fall into four broad areas that are the cornerstones of its work. The Jobs and Education Empowerment Project offer classes to help people improve their job skills and enhance opportunities for career advancement. Youth Programs provide one-on-one tutoring and mentoring for students, promote literacy skills, and help students prepare for college. Community Education supports environmental responsibility, health education, companionship for the elderly, and Habitat for Humanity projects. Homelessness Assistance and Advocacy programs help supply a food pantry, serve meals to the homeless, and staff homeless shelters in Manhattan.

To learn more about any Community Impact Program, visit www.columbia.edu/cu/ci or call 212-854-1492.