OUR VISION FOR YOUTH SERVICES

Our community is inspired and unified by maintaining a positive self-sufficient cycle of empowerment.  Our youth have a deep understanding and pride in their cultural heritage and respect for other cultures.  This informs their engagement in the community and helps them make healthy decisions to become successful and achieving adults who are determined and life-long workers for social change.  We support our schools to serve as community centers meeting all the needs of youth; so that they provide intense academic, social and enrichment support.

OUR GUIDING PRINCIPLES

• We provide a safe and supportive environment and welcoming place for youth.
• Respect the culture of our youth and family clients.
• We nurture caring and compassionate youth and understanding among our youth clients.
• Our staff, youth and family clients have pride in maintaining a clean and orderly environment.
• Our staff will be supportive and connected with eachother in their work with youth.
• We will be intentional in receiving, acknowledging and welcoming our youth and family clients.
• Our staff will connect to and establish caring relationships with our youth.

OUR PROGRAMS

Youth Employment Training Program (YETP)

This program was designed for youth to prepare for successful employment in the Bay Area.  We provide job training, internships, and a strong network that builds competence and self-confidence.  With access to the right resources, youth find employment that meet their need and where they feel valued for their work.

• Workforce development specific to youth needs
• Become more involved in school and local communities
• Prepare for higher education

Raza Leadership Program

RLP is an afterschool program that focuses on leadership development through workshops, guest speakers, films, field trips and active participation in community projects.  Our Raza program helps students develop skills they need to succeed and excel academically and socially.

• Raza History in the United States
• Civic Participation
• Community organizing projects

Newcomer Program

The Newcomer Program was designed to assist recently arrived students to adjust to life in Oakland.  This program strives to meet students' academic and personal needs while fostering a sense of community.

• Academics and English Language Development
• Social issues and support networks in Oakland
• Encourage and support higher education

School-Based Comprehensive After School Programs: Lazear Elementary, Peralta Creek Middle School, United For Success Academy

Our comprehensive school-based programs offer academic and enrichment activities to further students' understanding of school-related material.  Students experience engaging, culturally diverse activities through thematic, project-based learning.

Check out some of our work...

http://peraltacreekurbanarts.blogspot.com/

http://lazearscience.blogspot.com/

NOTICE: Spanish Speaking Citizens' Foundation will be applying for funding under 21st Century Community Learning Centers, to support programs in FY 09/10.