Founded in New York City in 1831, New York University has had a tradition of being a "private university in the public service." Just as our setting in Greenwich Village has been a key element in making NYU a leader in higher education, NYU has positively impacted the community by contributing to numerous local non-profit organizations, organizing a variety of community events, and helping to connect community members to available university resources. NYU works closely with city officials and agencies, neighborhood organizations, local businesses, social service providers, and other community-based organizations. City and community relations helps to orchestrate these endeavors and serves as the University's liaison to community boards, block associations, and individuals located in the University community.

City and community relations upholds the University’s academic mission by supporting the University’s engagement in the community. NYU’s primary community interaction occurs through local community boards. Community boards offer an important opportunity for those who want an active role in their neighborhood. Members of community boards are able to voice issues of concern at the monthly full-board meetings and are able to join committees to take action on specific issues. Click here to find your local community board.

NYU also maintains partnerships with many local Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) which contribute to the economic vitality of Greenwich Village and New York City. For community members looking to help local businesses improve and thrive, local BIDs offer an excellent chance help organize neighborhood revitalization and economic development. Click here to find your local BID.

The City Council and city agencies are vital to the University's operation. NYU does not receive higher education money from the city. However, the city supports many University projects, such as the Dental Van and Dental Clinics. Projects such as these enable NYU to provide dental services to underrepresented areas throughout the city. Click here for more information on NYU's Dental Van and dental services.

Additionally, numerous community service opportunities are available for University students and staff through the Office of Community Service. Community Service initiates various projects, including the President's C Team, NYU Clothes Line, and Campus Harvest. America Reads and America Counts is another University wide program that places over 800 college students in New York City public school classrooms to work as tutors helping elementary school students learn to read independently and learn basic math skills.

For local non-profits and community groups looking for support, the NYU Community Fund raises money for grants to neighborhood groups that are dedicated to such purposes as feeding the hungry, providing services to the elderly, supporting projects for the disabled, and numerous other worthy causes.