New Web site lists more than 200 campus programs, resources for Bay Area residents
BERKELEY – The University of California, Berkeley's Office of Community Relations has launched a new Web site called Cal in the Community that is a unique campus guide to over 200 community programs and academic, recreational and cultural resources sponsored by the campus for the benefit of communities. The Web site - http://calinthecommunity.berkeley.edu - reflects the university's commitment to public service and highlights the contributions made to the quality of life for Bay Area residents.
"Cal in the Community captures the spirit of a truly great partnership between the University of California, Berkeley, and its neighbors," said Chancellor Robert M. Berdahl.
The site is designed for user-friendly navigation. Program listings, containing a brief description and contact information, are organized alphabetically and by subject area, location served and population served. Nineteen categories represent the broad spectrum of programs, with about 90 programs under "Education" highlighting the outreach, curriculum enrichment and training programs for teachers.
"The wide array of programs and services that the university provides our local communities is truly amazing," said Irene Hegarty, director of UC Berkeley Community Relations. "Our staff spent months researching programs, gathering data and developing and designing this comprehensive online guide. We think it will help parents, teachers and local residents connect with the university in many different ways."
The site also features human interest stories on campus programs that are "Making A Difference," like the AileyCamp summer program, which introduces Berkeley and Oakland middle school students to the world of dance and personal development, or the Interactive University Project that teaches youth living in public housing to document community and housing issues through "digital storytelling."
The campus opens its doors to the public through lectures, museums, art exhibits, cultural performances, sports competitions and UC Berkeley extension courses. Campus facilities are available for conferences and workshops, recreation and simple enjoyment, from the Botanical Garden to the spectacular views from the Lawrence Hall of Science and the Campanile tower.
UC Berkeley students volunteer in local schools, community organizations and municipalities coordinated by the Cal Corps Public Service Center. Faculty and students work with neighborhoods and city departments through the Institute of Urban and Regional Development, promoting economic and community development in West Oakland and the Fruitvale district. Staff members volunteer by assisting low-income and elderly residents through "Rebuilding Together" and as worksite supervisors/mentors for Berkeley youth through the Berkeley YouthWorks summer employment program.
Throughout the Bay Area and beyond, UC Berkeley's public service benefits residents and communities. Said Chancellor Berdahl, "It is my hope that this online guide will help strengthen these bonds and suggest new areas for collaboration in years to come."