Larkin Street Youth Services

As a new mom, Natalie, our Director of Institutional Giving, knows how much a little support can change a life—and this Giving Tuesday, we get to show that same care to youth taking bold steps every day.   And that same support shows up in so many ways here at Larkin Street. Through wellness programs, therapy, and arts, youth are recognizing their abilities, gaining confidence, and taking meaningful steps toward long-term stability.   💛 In just two days, join us in celebrating what’s possible when our community comes together.   #GivingTuesday #WarmthYouSend #BoldStepsTheyTake #EndYouthHomelessness

This Thanksgiving morning I volunteered with GLIDEsf and Larkin Street Youth Services, in service of our unhoused neighbors and youth. Was a joy to be joined by neighbors and city officials across SFPD and SFFD in the heart of the Tenderloin. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

This season, we’re full of gratitude for everyone who makes Larkin Street’s work possible. From our dedicated staff who show up every day to nurture potential, to the youth whose courage inspires us, and the neighbors, partners, donors, and volunteers who support this community—together, you help create brighter futures. Thank you! 🧡

Big things happen when communities show up for youth, and #GivingTuesday is almost here! 💡 With guidance and care, youth are discovering what they’re capable of, growing in confidence, and lifted by the care and support of a community that believes in them. As Arsalan Khan-Razavi, our Larkin Street Academy Program Director, says: “Stability isn’t just housing. It’s respect, dignity, and having support to explore opportunities.” Your warmth fuels their courage and potential. 🍁 Stay tuned to see how you can join us. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/g-hJkDTM #WarmthYouSend #BoldStepsTheyTake #EndYouthHomelessness

Turning opportunities into outcomes! Last week, youth at our Employment & Scholarship Fair connected with employers and resources to overcome challenges and take steps toward their goals. Thanks to our teams and amazing partners, this year's results speak for themselves: among youth who complete our housing programs, 9 out of 10 youth completed high school or their GED, more than half were employed at exit, and over half pursued college or post-secondary education. 💛 Scholarship partners: Calma, Cranston & Baker, Gay Rights Grassroots Foundation (GRGRF), International Association of Youth, Jorgenson Household, SmartCookie, and Vituity Cares Foundation. 💛 Community partners: Automotive Trades Apprenticeship, Build California, Boys & Girls Club SF, Charity Cultural Services Center, Chefs, CITYBUILD, City College of San Francisco, Dev/Mission, Episcopal Community Services of San Francisco, Enterprise for Youth, Enterprise Mobility, HVYW8 Trucking Inc, Job Corps, Merit America, RAMS, Inc., Roxana Home Care, Tenderloin Community Benefit District, Tenderloin Housing Clinic, Treasure Island Job Corps Ctr, and YMCA of Greater San Francisco. #YouthOpportunities #CareerFair #ScholarshipProgram #EducationForAll #BayAreaCommunity

Inessa Shishmanyon joined the Peninsula Family Services finance team in 2012, working her way up and taking on the CFO role in 2017. In August 2024, she also took on the chief technology officer role at the organization. (Sponsored Content by Larkin Street Youth Services)

🌈 LGBTIQIA+ youth face challenges that many never see— including a higher risk of homelessness simply for living authentically. Though they make up a small portion of the overall youth population, they represent up to 40% of all young people experiencing homelessness. Many are displaced after family rejection, leaving them without safety, stability, or support. That’s why organizations like Larkin Street Youth Services in San Francisco are so critical. Nearly half of the young people they support identify as LGBTQIA+, and their programs provide shelter, counseling, education, and pathways to independence. Right now, Tristan Lombard is leading a campaign for donations (via Amazon) to put together care kits for Larkin Street Youth Services — here's a chance for all of us to help these young people feel seen, supported, and valued. ✨ How You Can Help ✨ 👉🏻 Purchase care kit items from Tristan’s campaign via Amazon (https://lnkd.in/g4sM82G5) 👉🏻 Share to raise awareness so more people understand the realities facing queer and 🏳️⚧️ trans youth 👉🏻 Champion inclusive, affirming spaces in your own communities — even small gestures make a big difference. Organizations like PFLAG National and The Trevor Project may be available in your local communities Tristan will be running two packing care kit parties. So please make your donations before December 10 to allow shipment for Tristan's events. Thank you!!! 🙏 Every young person deserves safety, dignity, and the chance to thrive. By supporting Larkin Street Youth Services, we’re not just giving aid — we’re giving hope.

🏃♂️ Our Larkin Street team hit the ground running—literally! Last weekend, youth, team members, board members, and even some four-legged friends took on the Berkeley Half Marathon. From early morning training sessions to crossing the finish line, this journey showcased the dedication, teamwork, and spirit that drive our community. 💪🌿   #BerkeleyHalf #Marathon #Wellness #Community #YouthDevelopment

Eric Larra capped off his career as a financial professional this summer, retiring from a more than decade-long role serving as CFO for Episcopal Community Services of San Francisco. (Sponsored Content by Larkin Street Youth Services)