Urbana-Champaign Independent Media Center - Urbana, Illinois

Urbana-Champaign Independent Media Center: A Hub for Creativity and Community

The Urbana-Champaign Independent Media Center (UCIMC) stands as a vital and multifaceted organization dedicated to fostering artistic expression, community engagement, and independent media production. Located at 202 S Broadway Ave, Urbana, IL 61801, the UCIMC offers a diverse range of services and spaces that cater to a wide array of creative pursuits. Contact them at Phone: 2173448820, or visit their website at ucimc.org for more information.

A Diverse Range of Activities and Services

The UCIMC’s operations encompass several distinct areas, making it a truly unique and valuable resource for the Urbana-Champaign community. Its core functions include operating as a social services organization, providing support and resources to individuals and groups within the area. It also functions as an art gallery, showcasing the work of local artists and contributing to the city's vibrant arts scene. Furthermore, the center actively supports the arts organization sector through various initiatives and collaborations.

Key Spaces and Facilities

At its heart, the UCIMC provides a dynamic community center, a welcoming space for individuals to gather, learn, and connect. It’s also a popular live music venue, regularly hosting local bands and musicians, contributing significantly to the city’s musical landscape. Beyond these core functions, the UCIMC operates as a news service, offering alternative perspectives and fostering media literacy. It's a dedicated non-profit organization, reliant on community support and committed to its mission.

Radio Broadcasting and Volunteer Opportunities

A notable aspect of the UCIMC is its role as a radio broadcaster, providing a platform for local voices and diverse content. This broadcasting arm contributes to the flow of information and promotes community dialogue. The organization also relies heavily on volunteer organizations, offering numerous opportunities for individuals to contribute their time and skills. The center’s commitment to community involvement is evident in its numerous programs and initiatives.

Accessibility and Amenities

The UCIMC is committed to inclusivity and accessibility. The building features a wheelchair accessible entrance, ensuring that all visitors can easily access the facilities. A wheelchair accessible parking lot is also available, further demonstrating the organization's dedication to accommodating individuals with disabilities. This focus on accessibility reflects the UCIMC’s broader commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone.

Positive Feedback and Reputation

The UCIMC consistently receives positive feedback from its users and stakeholders. Currently, the company boasts 88 reviews on Google My Business, with an average opinion of 4.5/5. These reviews highlight the organization’s welcoming atmosphere, helpful staff, and valuable resources. Many patrons speak to the quality of the events hosted, describing them as ‘amazing’ and ‘perfect’. The space is frequently praised for its ‘arty ambiance’ and ‘feeling of comfort and acceptance’ – contributing to a positive and supportive environment.

Experiences at the UCIMC

Individuals have shared compelling experiences at the UCIMC. One individual noted a ‘fantastic dance class’ held in the center’s spacious rooms and stage. Another recounted renting the space for an ‘art event,’ calling it ‘perfection,’ and praising the ‘artsy ambiance’ and the manager’s helpfulness. The basement area, while vast, remains largely unexplored, holding ‘too much stuff for me to list’ and representing a significant potential for future activities. The recent showing of ‘Proof’ garnered significant praise, with attendees describing the ‘friendly staff,’ ‘great show,’ and ‘wonderful atmosphere.’ These anecdotes underscore the center’s capacity to host diverse events and foster a vibrant community.

Recommended Information for Visitors

• Location: 202 S Broadway Ave, Urbana, IL 61801
• Contact: (217) 344-8820
• Website: ucimc.org
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance and parking lot
• Events: Check the website for a regularly updated schedule of events, including live music, art exhibitions, and workshops.

The Urbana-Champaign Independent Media Center is more than just a building; it’s a thriving hub for creativity, community, and independent media. It’s a valuable asset to the city and a place where individuals can come to learn, connect, and express themselves.

👍 Reviews of Urbana-Champaign Independent Media Center

Allison D.

5/5

I take a dance class here. They have wonderful open rooms a stage. An amazing basement area that has too much stuff for me to list that I haven't even experienced.
Best of CU

Amy T.

5/5

We rented the space for a fabulous art event, it was perfection! Artsy ambiance, a feeling of comfort and acceptance, and the manager was hands-on and very kind. I highly recommend this unique space!

Cameron S.

5/5

First time experience there was amazing for the last showing of 'Proof'. Friendly staff, great show, wonderful atmosphere.

Charlie F.

5/5

The IMC always has something interesting going on. I recently attended a concert that a water activist put on. The sound and lighting were amazing, and it was nice seeing a show in a non-bar venue.

There's always art on the walls and a welcoming atmosphere. They also have a zine library and a books for prisoners program.

Graduate E. O. L. 6.

5/5

We love hosting our events at the IMC! The staff, notably DJ BJ Clark, is the best at helping us plan and execute our activities - all at a great price! The professional equipment is perfect for creating a top-tier atmosphere that compliments any gathering. We will definitely continue to come back again and again.

Julia C.

5/5

A great venue for local events and activist groups.

The upstairs area is fully wheelchair accessible with a ramp AND elevette around the side of the building. They've added some really cool artwork to the accessible entrance too to make it more welcoming.

I volunteer with Books 2 Prisoners in the basement (no wheelchair entrance, unfortunately), which is a fantastic and much-needed program providing books to incarcerated people in Illinois. If you're looking to get involved in your community, start here!

Rhonda H.

5/5

Several years ago, when I learned that the Independent Media Center (IMC) was purchasing the Downtown Urbana Post Office, I was skeptical. But I have learned to love this space! From the local post office, to the radio station, to all the activities the IMC sponsors and hosts, it is a great space with thoughtful people facilitating it. In addition to renting a PO box there, I have rented a sunny space for my daughter’s baby shower, and a friend held a celebration of life there for her son. I recently, I attended a several week class for women and minorities to learn setting up sound systems with real life experience. The Independent Media Center is a jewel in the heart of downtown Urbana and I encourage you to learn more about what they offer for the community!

Tina W.

5/5

The UC-IMC is an AMAZING resource in our community! The venue space is great, the programming is high quality, the people are friendly, and the fact that we have this organization so close is a blessing!
Thank you to all who work so diligently to keep our IMC running strong!