Building Bridges: A Long-Term Supporter’s Vision

Claudia Viek’s connection with Mission Graduates spans nearly five decades, back to when it was known as St. John’s Educational Threshold Center. As founder of the Invest in Women Entrepreneurs Initiative and founder and Executive Director of the Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center in San Francisco, she understands the power of building sustainable community institutions.

“I’m a big believer in building diverse communities and working with young talent to support them and encourage them to reach their potential,” Claudia shares. This vision aligns perfectly with Mission Graduates’ work. “Mission Graduates is a bridge in a society of such income inequality, particularly in San Francisco.”

Through her work with the Bob Gnaizda Youth Leaders Program, established in honor of her late husband’s legacy of civil rights activism, Claudia continues supporting young leaders. When Mission Graduates student Elian Lomeli applied to the program, she recognized his potential. Selected as one of seven participants, Elian traveled to Washington DC to meet with elected officials, government agency leaders, and key policymakers. “Elian is a real go-getter,” she says. “He’s passionate about food justice and policy.” She connected him with a food incubator in Watsonville, where he now volunteers, expanding his experience in the field.

What keeps Claudia engaged with Mission Graduates after all these years? “It’s a hands-on, caring program,” she explains. “Even as the organization grows, Mission Graduates hasn’t lost that personal touch with young people and their families. You see a real impact from every dollar given.”

“Supporting Mission Graduates is one of the best choices somebody can make for our community and our city,” she asserts. Her commitment extends beyond her annual support—she has included Mission Graduates in her estate planning to create change for generations to come. “Your donation strengthens our community from within. The money flows directly into programs that help students succeed and parents become leaders. Very few programs engage parents like this in their children’s education, and that makes all the difference.”

Claudia’s long-term commitment demonstrates how sustained support can create lasting change in education and community development.