The UCCCC Office of Community Engagement and Cancer Disparities (OCECD) fosters strategic alliances with UChicago entities and healthcare groups, as well as community, ethnic, and faith-based organizations, to increase cancer knowledge in the community and engage participation in research and clinical trials. These organizations can be important social anchors in many communities, offering unique opportunities to reach underserved populations.
UChicago Partners
The Urban Health Initiative (UHI) represents The University of Chicago Medical Center's (UCMC) long-term commitment to improving health and access to quality care for residents on Chicago's South Side. UHI's Center for Community Health and Vitality (CCHV) complements the medical services provided to local residents by the UCMC.
The Pritzker School of Medicine at The University of Chicago is dedicated to inspiring diverse students of exceptional promise to become leaders and innovators in science and medicine. Students often participate in OCECD events as part of their training.
The Institute for Translational Medicine is the administrative unit for the Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) program and operates across many areas to generate new research methods, technologies, and molecular target discoveries.
Health Service Groups
American Indian Health Service of Chicago provides primary healthcare, mental health, and community health services to the American Indian population of Chicago. It is the only urban Indian health program in Illinois.
The Asian Health Coalition (AHC) comprises a diverse array of community-based organizations, healthcare providers, and public health officials. Its mission is to improve the health and well-being of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in Illinois through advocacy, technical assistance, education, and community-based research. UChicago's Karen E. Kim, MD, MS, is the AHC board president.
The Intercultural Cancer Council (ICC) promotes policies, programs, partnerships, and research to eliminate the unequal burden of cancer among racial and ethnic minorities and medically underserved populations.
Community, Ethnic, and Faith-based Organizations
The American Indian Center of Chicago is the oldest urban Native American center in the nation. The center's goals include advancing the general welfare of American Indians in the metropolitan community and fostering their economic and educational advancement.
Apostolic Faith Church serves its congregation at 3823 S. Indiana. Its many ministries includes a Health Professions Ministry that works with the OCECD to develop cancer awareness and health education programs.
The Chinese American Service League (CASL) is the largest and most comprehensive social service agency in the Midwest dedicated to serving the needs of Chinese Americans. CASL provides child education and development, employment services, counseling and social service, health, elderly services, and more to those who live primarily in the Chinatown, Armour Square, and Bridgeport areas of Chicago.
Salem Baptist Church of Chicago serves residents of Chicago's Roseland community. As a "Church Without Walls," Salem aims to provide spiritual, social, and community outreach.
