Chemistry in the Community (ChemCom) is a year-long high school chemistry course for college-bound students, structured around community issues related to chemistry. The course is about 50% laboratory-based, and features decision-making activities which give students practice in applying their chemistry knowledge in realistic decision-making situations. Concepts are presented on a "need-to-know" basis, allowing students to experience the use and application of their chemistry learning, leading to a greater sense of motivation and a feeling of ownership of their new knowledge. Because of the nature of the issues covered in the specific units, students learn more organic and biochemistry than in traditional courses, as well as some environmental and industrial chemistry.