Like the scientists they are training to be, students desire authentic engagement with the world around them. There is evidence that community-based learning (CBL) or service-learning (SL) not only enhances feelings of engagement in the community, but also increases confidence and competence in the sciences. However, the logistics of implementation can be imposing, and there is not a one-size-fits-all set of best practices for the design, scaffolding, and evaluation of CBL activities. This symposium seeks to convene current and aspiring practitioners of CBL in chemistry to share ideas on all aspects of CBL including but not limited to initiating and sustaining partnerships with community organizations, designing activities (including ideation, supporting students, and assessment), to evaluating the impact on students and partners.