Community and Belonging
Schedule an Appointment
If you have questions or would like additional support, please contact Gina Ebbeling to make an appointment.
Why Community and Belonging Matter
Community and belonging are essential aspects of human life that contribute to overall well-being and fulfillment. Community provides us with a support network and sense of identity. Studies have indicated that a significant portion of college students experience feelings of isolation and loneliness. According to a survey by the American College Health Association (ACHA), about 67% of college students reported feeling very lonely within the past year. (2022) Connecting to a community can positively impact your mental health and academic performance. Community also gives us a sense of place and connects us to our shared experience.
Community & Belonging Resources
On Campus
Over 200 clubs at Western - connect with groups that share your interests, identities and passions.
Outdoor Center - Get outside with friends and participate in excursions, classes, rent affordable gear and more.
A space that supports black students success and celebrates black identity, located on the 5th floor of the Viking Union.
A welcoming space supporting undocumented students and mixed-status families at WWU located in Viking Union, Room 720.
CRTC is a central intake and referral resource for all matters that potentially involve protected class discrimination, sex & gender-based violence, or civil rights compliance. CRTC implements the University’s discrimination grievance procedure and may help to resolve concerns through an investigation, informal resolution, or by providing support measures. CRTC also provides consultation to departments, employees, and students to help ensure that programs and services comply with civil rights obligations.
The Ethnic Student Center is located on the 7th floor of the Viking Union in the Multicultural Center and provides social and academic support.
Located in Viking Union, room #746, LGBTQ+ Western is committed to learning about and celebrating sexual orientation and gender identity diversity as they intersect with race, ethnicity, nationality, ability, religion, and other aspects of identity and experience.
Western Success Scholars (WSS) is a campus-based supportive program designed to assist all incoming WWU first year, transfer and continuing students who have experienced foster care or homelessness. The Program fosters academic success and a sense of community and belonging by providing a place where students can have a voice, support services and resources as they persist towards graduation.
Off Campus
Provides opportunities for our queer (LGBTQIA2S+) community, 18 years and older, to gather and engage with others in Downtown Bellingham and beyond.
Provides education, advocacy, and support to queer youth and young adults. Meet-ups, resource navigation, clothing, and case consultation.