WHAT WE DO

Located in the heart of West Oakland and only blocks away from Oakland's downtown corridor, The Oak Center Cultural Center (OCCC) is a community based, 501(c)3 arts and cultural organization that serves the city of Oakland. Currently, we also offer an infant and preschool program (Oak Center Little People Academy).



OUR HISTORY​

The OCCC has an incredibly dynamic legacy! For four decades, we've been a driving force in the vibrant Oak Center district, pioneering transformative programs and initiatives. Here are the programs we either created or brought into our center to enhance the lives of our city's residents:
 
⏺ Peace Makers (at-risk youth)
⏺ OCCC Martial Arts Program
⏺ OCCC Community Choir (vocal and performance arts training)
⏺ OCCC Community After-School
⏺ S.I.S.T.E.R. (drug treatment and recovery)
⏺ OCCC Dance Program
⏺ J.A.M. (youth mentorship)
⏺ Urban.net (training youth in technology)
⏺ Pathway Productions (theater arts for youth)
⏺ Acorn/Lowell Park Neighborhood Crime Prevention Council (crime prevention and safety)
⏺ SHERO: Sustainable Health Education Resources and Outreach (safe sex / AIDS awareness)
⏺ Manhood Collaborative (promoting positive relationship building, African-American fathers and sons)
⏺ Pivotal Point Youth Services (transition success into college and workforce)
⏺ Vets For Chess
⏺ Chosen Vessel Church Services
⏺ Mayor's Summer Jobs Program (provided G.E.D. and job training)
⏺ A.L.C. Art. Love. Community. (open mic performances)
⏺ Community Movie Nights (a public viewing of classic movies for the entire family)
⏺ Art Gallery Showing (local artist exhibitions)
⏺ Salsa Dance Class
​⏺ SPARK Preschool Program
⏺ Annual Thanksgiving Holiday Banquet
⏺ Annual Christmas Toy & Winter Clothing Giveaway
⏺ Oak Center Little People Academy - FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR CURRENT PRESCHOOL PROGRAM
⏺ and many more collaborations with community non-profit organizations



OUR MISSION

To empower our community through quality child care, educational engagement, and arts and cultural enrichment, fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment where every individual can thrive and reach their full potential.



OUR VISION

Our vision is to create a nurturing and stimulating community hub that serves as a catalyst for growth, learning, and creativity. Through innovative programs, partnerships, and advocacy, we aim to provide accessible and high-quality child care, educational resources, and cultural experiences that inspire lifelong learning, foster social connections, and celebrate diversity.