Born in Oakland.
Built for Oakland.
Keep Oakland Beautiful (KOB) was first established in 2003 by the City of Oakland. Since 2018, KOB has operated as a fully independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit volunteer organization working closely with local partners.
We are a community-powered group creating a more beautiful, clean, green, and litter-free Oakland — one neighborhood at a time.
Our Strategic Priorities
Greening
Expand planting and greening programs for Oakland’s most underserved communities.
Engagement
Increase citizen engagement and support community-led groups, such as Oakland’s Neighborhood Councils.
Beautification
Support the installation of meaningful art and murals across Oakland featuring the works of local artists.
Education
Create in-school programs to empower youth and establish education initiatives for the greater population.
Awareness
Implement messaging campaigns & attain news coverage highlighting the beauty of Oakland at a local and national level.
Our Distinctions
Clean California Community
In partnership with Oakland Public Works (OPW), Keep Oakland Beautiful has been named one of the first 32 communities to receive a Clean California Designation. KOB has signed a pledge and achieved outstanding commitment to reducing litter, improving public spaces, and fostering community pride.
Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency
Keep Oakland Beautiful has achieved the Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency. Candid provides comprehensive nonprofit data and information. Learn more about our organization and 501(c)(3) status by visiting our GuideStar profile.
Keep America Beautiful President’s Circle
Signifying commitment and dedication to a Keep America Beautiful affiliate’s local area throughout the past year, the President’s Circle recognizes exemplary performance in creating clean, green, and beautiful communities.
Keep Oakland Beautiful has been a proud member of the KAB President's Circle in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2023, and 2024.
Keep America Beautiful Affiliate
Keep Oakland Beautiful is an affiliate of Keep America Beautiful (KAB), a national nonprofit organization founded in 1953 that works with local affiliates, volunteers, public agencies, and corporate partners to reduce litter, increase recycling, and improve communities across the nation.
KAB supports local programs that bring people together to care for the places where they live. Today, the KAB network includes more than 730 community-based affiliates working in towns and cities across the country carrying out programs that range from litter cleanups and recycling education to tree planting, neighborhood revitalization, and beautification of public spaces.
Be a Part of Oakland’s Story
Support the mission of Keep Oakland Beautiful and help make our Town a cleaner, greener, and more beautiful place.