iCU Community

IlluminatING Cultures UnifyING CommunitY.

Enriching Chicago's suburban neighborhoods with multicultural events, inclusive programming, and community resources.

Welcome to iCU Community

Based in Chicago’s northwest suburbs, iCU Community exists to make diversity visible, valued, and vibrant — not just downtown, but on your block.

We connect families, empower youth, spotlight underrepresented businesses, and create spaces to learn, unlearn, and grow — together. Whether you’re here to build community, explore culture, or simply find your people, you belong here.

Let’s celebrate culture without the commute. Let’s build the community we’ve been waiting for.

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iCU COMMUNITY FOUNDER/EXEC. DIRECTOR

I’m Deborah — a Caribbean-American mama of three brilliant, inquisitive boys, living in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. Like so many parents raising children of color outside the city, I’ve felt the tension: the isolation, the gaps in culturally competent care, and the constant need to translate our experiences in spaces that weren’t built with us in mind.

iCU Community was born from that lived reality — and the urgent need to shift it.

I didn’t create this organization just to fill a gap. I created it to build a movement — one that centers Black and Brown families in suburban spaces, uplifts culturally affirming practitioners, and cultivates environments where our children are seen, celebrated, and supported.

This work is personal. It’s communal. And it’s just the beginning.

And to those who share this vision — co-conspirators, bridge-builders, equity-driven neighbors — there’s space for you here too. Let’s build the kind of community our children deserve.

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iCU Community

Our VALUES

CULTURE IS POWER

We center and celebrate the rich cultural identities that shape our stories, heal our communities, and fuel our future.

COMMUNITY OVER EVERYTHING

We believe in showing up for one another. Through connection, collaboration, and care, we build spaces where everyone feels seen, supported, and valued.

GROUNDED IN GRASSROOTS

Our roots run deep in the people; families, youth, and everyday changemakers co-creating the kind of community we all deserve.

CULTURAL

CULTURALLY RICH

Immerse yourself in events that appreciate vibrant traditions, music, dance, history, and cuisine of diverse cultures.

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EVENTS

Events That Celebrate You

At iCU Community, we're dedicated to preserving the authenticity of ethnic traditions and holidays, ensuring they flourish and thrive just as they should.

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Let's Connect!

Got an idea for a cool event? Want to partner up? We're all ears! Get in touch and let's shake things up together.