Duke is proud to be part of Durham—a vibrant, diverse community with a deep history of resilience, creativity, and culture. Through partnerships, service, and shared learning, our university community works alongside local leaders, organizations, and neighbors to strengthen opportunities and address challenges together.

This page is designed to help Duke faculty, staff, and students find ways to connect with Durham, engage responsibly, and build lasting relationships.

 

Connect Through Scholarship and Teaching

  • Center for Community-Engaged Scholarship: Collaborate with Durham organizations and residents through research and teaching that is led by community input. Get guidance on developing equitable partnerships, integrating service-learning into your courses, and identifying community needs that align with your academic interests.
 

Partner With the Community

  • Community Partnerships: Identify and nurture collaborations with local nonprofits, schools, and community leaders. Our office can help you build relationships that are sustainable and respectful of community expertise.
     
  • Volunteer Opportunities: Explore service opportunities with local organizations making an impact across education, health, housing, the arts, and more.
 

Explore Durham Resources

Durham is known as the “City of Medicine,” a hub of innovation, and a place of rich cultural traditions. As you build your Duke experience, we invite you to learn more about the community we call home:

  • City & County Leadership: Stay connected with the City of Durham and Durham County governments, including the Mayor's Office, City Council, and Board of County Commissioners.
     
  • Community Organizations: Explore the Duke Partnership Platform to discover the work of local nonprofits and grassroots groups addressing key issues in housing, food security, economic mobility, public health, and more.
     
  • Cultural Life & Neighborhoods: Discover Durham is your one-stop shop for Durham’s arts and music scene, historic districts, parks, and community events.
 

Getting Started

Not sure where to begin? Whether you are looking to partner with neighbors, bring community voices into your classroom, volunteer with a local nonprofit, or learn more about Durham’s civic leaders, our team is here to help. Contact Duke Community Affairs at communityaffairs@duke.edu to get started.