Northwestern Neighborhood and Community Relations

06/23/2026

World Cup Watch Party: June 25

Join the City's Recreation Department and Northwestern Office of Neighborhood and Community Relations for an outdoor World Cup Watch Party on Thursday, June 25, at 9 p.m. at the Robert Crown Community Center outdoor soccer fields.

Bring your lawn chairs and blankets, gather your crew, and join us for a night of World Cup soccer under the stars. Cheer on the USA team as they take on Turkey. Come early around 8:30 p.m. and come hungry because there will be hot dogs, burgers, snacks, and beverages for purchase.

Plus, enjoy free popcorn from Northwestern University, while supplies last.

06/18/2026

We're excited to kick off the 2026–2027 ANCHOR Grants Program on July 1!

The ANCHOR Grants Program supports collaborative partnerships between community organizations and Northwestern faculty, staff, and students to address important issues related to health equity, economic and social empowerment, and youth education across Evanston, Chicago, and Cook County.

Since its launch, the program has invested more than $2 million in community-driven initiatives, helping organizations create meaningful and lasting impact throughout our communities.

As we prepare for a new grant cycle, we're excited to partner with our 12 grant recipients, support their innovative ideas, and help advance projects that strengthen communities across Evanston, Chicago, and Cook County. We look forward to collaborating with both new and returning partners as they create meaningful and lasting impact.

We look forward to another year of collaboration, impact, and opportunity!

The Embedding Restorative Practices in Evanston Schools — Year 2 is one of 12 community-focused projects awarded funding from the ANCHOR program — Advancing Neighborhood & Community Health, Opportunity & Resilience — which is led by the University’s Office of Neighborhood and Community Relat...

05/28/2026

What an exciting and impactful evening yesterday at the Ryan Field Press Event held at Welsh-Ryan Arena!

Northwestern University and the Ryan Family continue to demonstrate what it truly means to invest in community — not just through words, but through meaningful action and long-term commitments. Yesterday’s announcements highlighted an incredible vision for the future of the new Ryan Field, including commitments to provide opportunities and access for local schools, youth sports programs, organizations, and the surrounding community.

One of the major highlights of the event was the announcement that the historic Evanston vs. New Trier football rivalry game will be played at the new Ryan Field this fall — marking the first high school football game ever played in the new stadium. In addition, Northwestern announced future rent-free opportunities for local youth sports tournaments and community events as part of its ongoing commitment to reinvest in Evanston and neighboring communities.

The speakers did an outstanding job articulating the broader vision of the new Ryan Field as more than just a stadium, but as a year-round community asset designed to create memorable experiences and opportunities for people of all ages.

Special recognition to Pat Ryan Jr. for his continued leadership and passion around ensuring that the community becomes the “second anchor tenant” of the new Ryan Field — a vision that continues to reshape what town-gown partnership and community investment can truly look like.

It’s inspiring to witness the intentional efforts being made to ensure that local residents, schools, student-athletes, and community organizations are not only included, but prioritized in the future of this transformational project.

The future of Ryan Field is about much more than football — it’s about community, access, partnership, opportunity, and impact.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/high-school/football/2026/05/26/high-school-football-evanston-vs-new-trier-northwestern-ryan-field/90260877007/?utm_source=taboola&utm_medium=deeperdive&utm_campaign=oc

Go ’Cats and Go Evanston!!!

Evanston High School holds a 57-54-6 all-time lead over New Trier. The rivals will face off at Northwestern's brand-new Ryan Field in 2026.

05/24/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1Gx8nXm7rx/

05/24/2026

National Champs 🏆

05/23/2026

Go 'Cats💜🖤💜🖤

05/22/2026

Excitement is building in Evanston as Northwestern Wildcats women's lacrosse takes the field today in the 2026 NCAA Lacrosse Final Four!

What an incredible moment for our student-athletes, coaches, alumni, fans, and the entire Evanston community. Hosting the tournament here in Evanston makes this experience even more special — showcasing not only elite collegiate athletics, but also the energy, hospitality, and pride of our city and campus community.

This is more than just a game — it’s an opportunity to be part of history. The atmosphere, the passion, and the national spotlight on Evanston make this a moment we will remember for years to come.
If you’re able, come out and support the Wildcats today as they compete on one of the biggest stages in college athletics. Let’s pack the stands, represent Evanston proudly, and show the country what the Wildcat community is all about.

Good luck to the Wildcats — and congratulations on an incredible season and another Final Four appearance!

05/22/2026

Great opportunity to support the Wildcats and be a part of history!

Go 'Cats

05/19/2026

We are excited to announce the date/details of the 2026 Community Movie Night!

Northwestern Athletics and Recreation and Northwestern University's Office of Neighborhood and Community Relations invite guests to attend a free showing of ...

05/13/2026

Today is the day!

Cohen Lawn is now complete, featuring an outdoor patio and lawn, a rooftop patio, Kahn Pavilion and Luna’s Pub & Grill, and will be celebrated on May 13 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.