UROC University of Minnesota Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center

09/07/2026

UROC is closed today in observance of Labor Day, and will resume regular hours on Tuesday, September 8.

We hope you have a safe, restful, and enjoyable Labor Day!

09/03/2026

UROC is looking for volunteers to help with Community Day 2026! Volunteer shifts are available on September 16 and 17. Follow the link to sign up. For questions email [email protected] or call 612-626-8762.

https://z.umn.edu/bj69

08/31/2026

Happening at UROC this week. For a full list of events or to reserve a room visit https://ow.ly/NsiX50Z1brm

08/27/2026

Join UROC for an open house that explores what is possible when we take action together. UROC’s Community Day provides a space to connect with community members and university organizations, learn about the work happening at UROC, and explore how collective action can lead to meaningful change and healing. Stop by the building for engaging displays, live performances, food from local chefs, official UROC swag, and more. Meet the UROC team, University researchers and their community partners and learn about their projects and upcoming events. The event is free and open to the public.

Register Today: https://z.umn.edu/bhxe

08/21/2026

Stop by UROC this Saturday, Aug. 22, from 12-5 PM for the inaugural Black Garnet Books Midwest Black Book Fair! Free and open to all.

Discover amazing authors, connect with fellow readers, shop Black-owned vendors, attend workshops, enjoy food from local restaurants, and celebrate the stories that honor and uplift our communities.

Register now: midwestblackbookfair.com

08/20/2026

UROC is conducting a research study to understand the communities needs and ideas to develop a Family Resource Center serving the North Minneapolis and Brooklyn Park neighborhoods.

Family Resource Centers are a safe, welcoming, and fun place to gather, receive support, find resources, and engage with programming that is accessible and culturally responsive. Participants will complete a 5-minute online screening survey, a 15-minute online study survey, and attend a 90 minute in-person focus group to share your ideas to design a Family Resource Center.

To check eligibility, scan the QR code or follow the link: https://z.umn.edu/bi1s

08/20/2026

Waves of Belonging: Art, Access, and the North Shore at UROC

Date: Wednesday, August 26, 2026 | 5-7 PM

Register Here: https://z.umn.edu/bi1q

Lake Superior’s North Shore is one of Minnesota’s most beloved outdoor destinations, but not everyone experiences it the same way. Access, comfort, and a sense of belonging can vary across communities. Join us for an interactive community event exploring how Minnesotans perceive and experience water-based recreation along the North Shore.

At this event, participants will:
- Learn about recent UMN research on how Minnesotans perceive and experience water-based recreation on Lake Superior’s North Shore

- Explore what constrains or encourages visitation among potential visitors

- Participate in a fun, hands-on, guided community art activity

- Imagine and share ideas for creating more welcoming outdoor recreation opportunities for everyone.

This event is open to anyone interested in community, the outdoors, and creating more welcoming green and blue spaces. No art experience is necessary, and all materials will be provided.

08/17/2026

Waves of Belonging: Art, Access, and the North Shore

Date: Wednesday, August 26, 2026

Location: Robert J. Jones: Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center

Lake Superior’s North Shore is one of Minnesota’s most beloved outdoor destinations, but not everyone experiences it the same way. Access, comfort, and a sense of belonging can vary across communities. Join us for an interactive community event exploring how Minnesotans perceive and experience water-based recreation along the North Shore.

At this event, participants will:
- Learn about recent UMN research on how Minnesotans perceive and experience water-based recreation on Lake Superior’s North Shore

- Explore what constrains or encourages visitation among potential visitors

- Participate in a fun, hands-on, guided community art activity

- Imagine and share ideas for creating more welcoming outdoor recreation opportunities for everyone.

This event is open to anyone interested in community, the outdoors, and creating more welcoming green and blue spaces. No art experience is necessary, and all materials will be provided.

Learn more:

Location: Robert J. Jones: Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement CenterLake Superior’s North Shore is one of Minnesota’s most beloved outdoor destinations, but not everyone experiences it the same way. Access, comfort, and a sense of belonging can vary across communities. Join us for an interac...