Community Partners

With determination and grit, everyone can contribute to a better future.

We are proud to have so many community partners that support our mission to make University City the best of Charlotte and of this state. Below are a few of the wonderful organizations with whom we collaborate.

The Y is the nation’s leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
Through 20 locations, targeted outreach and online, the Library delivers exceptional services and programs, with a mission to improve lives and build a stronger community.

Since 2003, Camino Health Center has devoted its energy to passionately serve low-income families, individuals and feed the homeless with respect and love.

Atrium Health is the region’s only system with nationally ranked care for kids and adults. They have an award-winning maternity center providing personalized support and education.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Deportment is divided into 13 patrol divisions with University City being the largest.
UCity Family Zone is a place-based partnership for improving the quality of life in neighboring communities in and around University City.
Meck Ed ensures that ALL students in Mecklenburg County have access to the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to lead productive, successful lives.
UNC Charlotte is the region’s leading public higher education institution and North Carolina’s Urban Research University, as well as a driving force of growth, discovery and innovation for the Carolinas.
Mecklenburg County is a community of pride and choice for people to live, learn, work and recreate. Services provided include community health & safety and our wonderful parks.
Heal Charlotte is a community organization created to support dialogue and relationship building between urban youth and families, the police, as well as our community partners.
Men of Destiny is working to eradicate the competition mentality within the nonprofit sector. We truly believe the community can effectively be serviced by working together.
City of Charlotte is the 15th most populous city in the U.S. and the second largest in the Southeast. Charlotte is considered one of the fastest growing cities in the U.S.

News

Cheers to Community: A Look Back at the 9th Annual University City Wine Fest

On Saturday, April 12, 2025, the Shoppes at University Place became the epicenter of celebration as the 9th Annual University City Wine Fest brought together thousands of wine lovers, music fans, and local foodies for an unforgettable afternoon along the lakefront....

Honoring Shane Hockensmith and Giant University Bikes – A Legacy of Movement in University City

For over 27 years, Giant University City has been more than a neighborhood bike shop—it has been a trusted resource and gathering place for University City’s active and diverse community. At the heart of it all has been Shane Hockensmith, a dedicated small business...

Building a Business Ecosystem: How UCP is Fueling Small Business Growth in University City

University City Partners (@UnivCityCLT) is more than a supporter of small businesses—it’s a strategic builder of a connected, thriving local business ecosystem. Through intentional funding, partnerships, and visibility campaigns, UCP is elevating entrepreneurs,...

University City Farmers Market Kicks Off the 2025 Season!

University City Farmers Market returns for another exciting season — bringing farm-fresh goods, artisan products, and vibrant community spirit to the heart of University City! Join us every Saturday from May through October, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, at NOVEL University...

Help Us Clean Up University City—We Need Your Voice

Trash. Dumping. Overflowing bins. It’s not just an eyesore—it sends a message. And in University City, we believe that message should be pride, care, and community. That’s why University City Partners launched a Trash Study to better understand where the problems are...

Vanguard: Making a Difference

A new hub focused on financial empowerment has opened in Charlotte, offering residents in underserved communities, tools and support to help break the cycle of poverty. The Charlotte Area Fund in southeast Charlotte has been selected as the city's first site for a...

A Hometown Approach to Policing

For CMPD Lt. John Gorrod, keeping University City safe isn’t just a job—it’s personal. Having lived in the area while attending UNC Charlotte and with family still calling the neighborhood home, he has a vested interest in crime prevention and quality of life issues....

Sip, Savor, and Celebrate: University City Wine Fest Returns for its 9th Year!

Charlotte, get ready to raise your glasses—University City Wine Fest is back, and it’s bigger, bolder, and more delicious than ever! On Saturday, April 12, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., The Shoppes at University Place will transform into a vibrant oasis of wine, craft brews,...

Your Input, Big Impact: How the Trash Survey is Shaping University City

When it comes to keeping University City clean and safe, we’re not just guessing what works—we’re listening to YOU. Your feedback in the University City Trash Survey is already guiding how we: Focus our Public Safety Initiative Strengthen the Ambassador Program Secure...

Balancing the Live, Work, Play Ratio: The Future of University City

University City is undergoing a transformative journey as it evolves into a dynamic live-work-play community. With its proximity to UNC Charlotte, a burgeoning light rail system, and a growing residential population, the area is well-positioned to become a model for...