Lauren Karplus (she/her)

Company Affiliation: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Languages Spoken: English, German, SiSwati

Stage of Life: Professional/young children

What brought me to Champaign-Urbana: University of Illinois graduate that stayed in the community

Areas of Expertise: Downtown Champaign, Downtown Urbana, University of Illinois Campus, Education, College & Adult Sports, Outdoor Recreation, Fitness, Running/Walking, Childcare, Family Activities, Volunteering, Community Development, Public Transportation, Entertainment, Arts & Culture, Culinary Scene / Local Foods, Craft Beer

Advice for New Residents: 1. Get plugged in to local newsletters/websites such as Smile Politely, Visit Campaign County, Chambanamoms, Park District FB pages, etc….This will give you a great idea of all of the offerings 2. If you like to socialize, join a group in your interest area (be it adult rec leagues, a knitting club, a birdwatching group, a book club, etc…), where you’ll meet other like-minded people who will serve to introduce you to the community further. 3. Spend time exploring- there’s no shortage of free or low-cost activities!