Our Blueprint for Lasting Change
Our Theory of Change guides our approach through five key pillars, each designed to support students and families from kindergarten through college and career, creating a generational impact.
Academic and Literacy Development
We provide rigorous academic support to boost students’ literacy skills, grades, and confidence, increasing their chances of accessing and succeeding in higher education.
Students in Mission Graduates afterschool programming are over 2X more likely to meet or exceed grade-level literacy expectations than students not in MG.
Mission Graduates afterschool programming students are 43% more likely to believe they can increase their intelligence with hard work than non-MG students.
Community Engagement, Advocacy, and Support
We empower students through service-learning, community projects, and advocacy education, developing their civic engagement skills and social justice awareness.
Mission Graduates afterschool programming students are 41% more likely to report feeling part of their school community than non-MG students.
92% of Mission Graduates-run English Learners Advisory Committees (ELACs) members report that their ELAC helped improve their school’s services and resources for English Learners in the 23-24 school year.
Family Partnership
We help students and their families navigate educational systems, advocate for their children, and actively participate in their academic journey.
100% of College Connect parents report that the program taught them how to help their child apply to college, and 90% say it taught them to prepare their child for the college transition.
95% of Mission Graduates ELAC members agreed that being part of an ELAC helped them navigate the system at their child’s school.
Building a Culture of Higher Education and Lifelong Learning
We instill the value of higher education early, guiding students through the college application process and supporting their success throughout their academic careers.
90% of this year’s College Connect seniors are attending four-year college this fall—3X the rate in California overall (29%).
100% of this year’s College Connect seniors and 88% of John O’Connell seniors are attending a two or four-year school this fall, compared to 62% in California overall.
67% of College Connect seniors are receiving private scholarships to help finance their college experience.
24% of our College Connect seniors will be attending a highly selective school with acceptance rates under 25%.
Developing a Workforce with 21st Century Skills
We integrate STEM, socioemotional, and leadership skill-building into all programs, equipping students to tackle complex problems in their future careers.
86% of our Career Readiness Series participants gained confidence in their ability to impress a prospective employer in a job interview.
100% of Mission Graduates’ Career Readiness Series fall participants gained confidence in negotiating a job offer.
96% of Mission Graduates’ Promotoras and Parent Leaders expanded skills in at least one category (technology, leadership, professional skills) last year.
Our Impact in Action
Discover how our programs are opening doors for San Francisco’s youth and families.
Mentorship was crucial in my development. As an alumna, I’m driven to uplift fellow first-gen students, ensuring they have the same opportunities vital to my success.
As a first-generation college student, Mission Graduates gave me invaluable resources to navigate college applications. The office became my second home—where I felt welcomed, valued, and cared for throughout my journey.
University of Virginia ’26
Having a writing partner taught me so much I didn’t know yet. We worked hard before and during applications, and those lessons made a huge difference in college.
Get Involved
Discover the diverse students and families we support across San Francisco.
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