The CCBL’s civic engagement approach is based on community organizing practices and  aims to enrich student learning and commitment to social responsibility by engaging students, faculty, and off campus leaders as co-thinkers and collaborators, in order to make tangible contributions toward solving social justice related issues.

Who We Are

Since its creation in 2001, Occidental’s Center for Community Based Learning (CCBL) has provided leadership and developed resources to institutionalize community based learning at Occidental College. To accomplish this goal, the center engages with students, faculty, other campus offices, and community partners, as well as state, national, and international networks. The goal of community based learning is to enhance student learning and faculty engagement by connecting academic study and civic education through reciprocal, mutually beneficial relationships with the greater community.

In 2002, CCBL founded the Northeast Education Strategy Group, a network of public district and charter schools, and community organizations. The network involves principals, teachers, parents, students and college professors, staff, and students working together to create long-term change in the area.