WBEZ is launching Chicago.com, a platform where communities will be at the heart of the experience: welcoming online spaces where neighbors can share recommendations, ask questions, find useful local information and discover opportunities to connect in person. Among the first five communities to launch is Bronzeville. Each chicago.com community will bring together moderated conversations among neighbors, feature a community calendar, and a curated newsletter highlighting what’s happening locally. A locally rooted, paid community steward will help surface useful information from across each community, welcome people into the conversation, and connect what happens online with opportunities to participate offline.

That focus on real-world connection is central to how communities are designed. Chicago.com communities are powered by Roundabout, a nonprofit digital platform created by our partners at New_ Public. Unlike commercial social media platforms designed to keep people scrolling, chicago.com communities prioritize local connection and a human touch. The goal is simple: help people find what they need online so they can enjoy life offline.

If you would like to join the Bronzeville group, please click here.