chalk drawing of oberlin.
The chalk art on the sidewalk along Main Street shows an artist's rendering of Oberlin’s music, businesses, eateries, and more.
Photo credit: Arisa Williams ’06

Community Resources

Since their founding in 1833, Oberlin College and the city of Oberlin have always been physically, socially, and economically intertwined. We have worked together to create a vibrant community renowned for its historic contributions to Northeast Ohio, the nation, and the world. The college is proud to be part of the Oberlin community, and encourages residents to engage with our many campus resources and events.

Our Community

Community engagement is an important part of Oberlin’s educational mission. We strive to educate, prepare, and empower students to use their academic, societal, and cultural experiences to benefit the residents of Oberlin, Lorain Country, and beyond.

Community News

Community Mural Project Highlights Aspects of Oberlin

September 14, 2021

More than 100 town and college members picked up artists' brushes and applied their painting skills to a 32-foot mural in Carpenter Court late last month during Community Paint Day. The result is an expressive collage that the organizer of the project hopes will fill passersby with Oberlin pride.

Community Events

Get to Know Oberlin College

The college offers different ways for community members to explore and experience its amenities and campus facilities. Borrow an audio book, buy a gym membership, or listen to a docent at the museum.

Explore and Experience

Service-Based Learning

Oberlin’s Bonner Center for Community-Engaged Learning, Teaching and Research connects students with service opportunities in schools, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies. Programs emphasize ongoing training and reflection to prepare students for ethical and responsible community engagement.

Community service table in a park.

Community Wellness

The college’s Shanks Health and Wellness Center welcomes community members to get ‘‘YeoFit’’ through its fitness classes that may include yoga, spinning, aquafit, TRX training, and more. We are following CDC safety guidelines to ensure everyone remains safe and healthy during the pandemic. Our wellness center has several membership levels or purchase a day pass.

People seated on stationary bikes.

Our Community, Our Stories

Oberlin Publications

Oberlin's award-winning student-based and college publications tell compelling and original stories of the college, conservatory, its people, and alumni.

Oberlin’s annual Day of Service plays a big part in Orientation week. New and returning college students take part in a host of service projects to become familiar with Oberlin and how best to engage with the community. Projects bring students into local schools, libraries, parks, green spaces, small businesses, youth and senior facilities, and other agencies.

Students organizing food into boxes as part of MLK Day of Service
Photo credit: Dale Preston ’83