The University Heights Center for the Community Association (UHCCA) is a non-profit, 501(c) 3, community center located in the former University Heights Elementary School. We are located in the heart of the University District.

Originally serving the community as a City of Seattle Elementary school,  University Heights served the University District and greater neighborhoods for over 85 years. For nearly a century, thousands of neighborhood children raced up and down these halls, learned from these chalkboards and shared many wonderful childhood memories. This location school was closed by the Seattle School District in 1989 due to failing enrollment. Just before the building was to be closed, local residents, businesses, students, parents, teachers and the community rose up and joined hands around the school chanting "Be Cool, Save our School" in an effort to keep this school.

Unwilling to let this landmark be lost, a neighborhood organization conducted a survey of the community regarding the future status of the building. A majority of 75% agreed that it should continue to serve the public as a multi-use community center. In response, the University Heights Center for the Community Association was established in January 1990. Since then, University Heights Center has been serving the greater University District through the wide variety of classes, workshops and programs available at the center.

The mission of UHCCA is to build neighborhood and community by:

1) Providing a safe, attractive and accessible place for the community to gather, play, learn, create, work, volunteer and celebrate and;

2) Offer and support quality programs, events and services responsive to the needs of the community.

We believe that "Old Schools Still Teach" and strive to maintain this principle by working hand in hand with local organizations and businesses to further this center as a resource, continue to provide an environment where families and the community to meet, fellowship, foster civic involvement and lifelong learning. This effort is continuous and to provide such a diverse array of opportunities for learning and growth in a historical setting for an ever-changing neighborhood it takes many hands.

Thousands of people frequent the University Heights Center every year. Over 200 groups a year choose to make the University Heights Center their home for their classes, workshops, community meetings and more every year. From aerobics to belly dance, from city meetings to dance classes, from green gardening to shopping at Seattle's largest farmers market, the University Heights Center has a little bit of everything.

Every year, University Heights Center participates in many special events throughout the University District and we are always looking for more ways to strengthen community. Have an idea for a class or a need in the area, let us hear it! We appreciate all suggestions. We are always on the lookout for new programs or services in the community.

Because we value our neighborhood, we also work closely with other organizations seeking to improve and strengthen the neighborhood. University Heights Center holds a variety of community events free to the public every year focusing on events that meet our mission and encourage community participation.

We are always looking for positive ways to embrace community. Join us in bringing our community together. Inside or out, there is always something new happening at the University Heights Center.

Welcome!