YouthCares is currently hiring -- see below.

Since its inception in 1997, YouthCares has been bringing immigrant youth and senior citizens together through its unique intergenerational model. As of September 2007, the two neighborhood-based programs employing that model—SoMa and Richmond—have been merged into one citywide program, YouthCares Intergenerational. The new program will employ youth from across San Francisco to serve senior citizens at three different sites.

The tens of thousands of immigrant senior citizens in San Francisco face special challenges. Most of the seniors we serve have little or no English ability, yet unlike younger immigrants, they cannot rely on work or school as outlets to learn the language and culture of their new home. In addition to all the difficulties familiar to immigrants and all the difficulties of senior citizens in general, these seniors are also vulnerable to extreme cultural isolation.

Immigrant youth, mired in their own transition, often have trouble communicating with the older generation. At the same time, they are struggling to succeed in their new environment without losing their identity and need after school services that value their particular strengths. Each semester and summer at YouthCares, a group of high school students is trained to provide assistance and companionship to senior citizens in their own communities. Youth conduct ESL classes and provide one-on-one tutoring, teach computer skills, facilitate arts and crafts activities, operate a food bank, and organize special events.

>>> Program Coordinator

Please click here to learn more about the Program Coordinator or click here to get in touch.

>>> JOB OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUTH!!

Are you a San Francisco high school student looking for something meaningful to do after school? In YouthCares Intergenerational, you can give back to your community while also earning money or community service credits for graduation. Members of YouthCares Intergenerational work with senior citizens in the Richmond and SoMa districts, providing activities such as ESL, art classes, and a weekly food bank.  YouthCares Intergenerational is a great way to gain work experience and job skills, build your leadership, and meet people of different backgrounds and generations.  Click here to apply for Fall 2008.