Lynn Mayor Edward J. Clancy Jr. welcomes the relationship. "The students have been a huge help," Clancy said. "They're role models. They teach our kids. They donate their time. . . . A lot of paths are paved with good intentions, but Gordon has delivered."

Clancy said Gordon's $1 million investment is significant for Lynn's downtown, where condominium redevelopment projects have drawn singles and professionals. As for college kids in the mix, "They've really meshed here," Clancy said.

As a requirement of living in the Lynn dorm, Gordon students must volunteer or work for a Lynn organization. Among the beneficiaries are the Lynn Museum; "Project Yes," an antigang initiative at North Shore Community College; and the New American Center , an immigrant outreach organization.

"It makes us part of the city," said Sanya, who spends 20 hours a week working at Girls Inc. "It's given me a rare chance at civic engagement."

Carlberg said the outreach to Lynn reflects Gordon's values. The college also runs an urban leadership program in Boston, and helped establish the Lowell Community Church for Cambodian immigrants. Students and staff also volunteer for service groups and churches across the North Shore.