A campus defined by its neighbors and determined to give back
For decades, Cal State Long Beach has been tightly woven into the life of its city. Across campus, community-facing labs, clinics and programs serve as both a learning anchor and bridge — linking the university with the neighborhoods around it.
In these spaces, students provide high-quality free or low-cost services to residents who might otherwise go without care, while reaping the benefits of working side-by-side with expert faculty.
The result is a network of trust between The Beach and the community: places where needs are met and students learn to turn their training into real-world service.
Neuro Pro Bono Clinic
When insurance benefits end, recovery often does too — especially for stroke survivors. At the Neuro Pro Bono Clinic, physical therapy students help clients continue rehabilitation at no cost, working under faculty supervision to support long-term neurological recovery.
Speech and Language Clinic
Students in the Speech and Language Clinic provide assessment and therapy services for children and adults, helping clients build communication skills that affect school, work and daily life. For speech-language pathology students, it’s hands-on clinical training; for families, it’s accessible, consistent care.
Long Beach Trauma Recovery Center
At the Long Beach Trauma Recovery Center, students studying counseling psychology and social work offer free counseling and advocacy services to victims of violent crime. The center pairs mental health support with practical assistance, helping clients navigate the aftermath of trauma while students gain experience working in high-impact, community-based care.
Camp Nugget
Each summer, Camp Nugget brings children with disabilities to campus for a program focused on confidence, independence and connection. CSULB students serve as counselors and role models, creating a space where campers are supported — and celebrated — for who they are.
PRO-Health Research Lab
Through the psychology-centered PRO-Health Research Lab, students partner with community organizations to reduce maternal stress and improve family well-being. The work blends research with real-world application, addressing health inequities while training the next generation of clinicians and scholars.
Inclusive Marketing Initiative
The Inclusive Marketing Initiative pairs business students with local entrepreneurs to strengthen their digital marketing and brand presence. Small businesses gain strategic support; students graduate with portfolio-ready experience grounded in community need.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
For decades, CSULB’s VITA program has helped local residents prepare and file their taxes at no cost. Accounting students receive hands-on financial training while ensuring neighbors keep more of what they earn — especially in underserved communities.
