For over 50 years, Mission Graduates has tackled educational inequities in San Francisco, where opportunity gaps persist for under-resourced and first-generation students. What began as a neighborhood tutoring center has grown into a comprehensive support system that creates pathways from kindergarten to higher education and eventually, fulfilling careers.
Over the years, Mission Graduates has evolved to meet the changing needs of our community and our enduring commitment to educational equity.
Our Mission
Mission Graduates empowers youth and their families on the path to higher education, equipping them for fulfilling careers that will strengthen future generations.
Timeline
A Vision Takes Root
St. John’s Educational Threshold Center launches in the North Mission, providing after-school tutoring to neighborhood youth. The program fills a crucial need, creating a safe space for academic support.
Stories of Resilience
Despite facility challenges, the program flourishes. “Got Me A Story To Tell,” funded by a federal grant, celebrates diverse student voices and establishes our commitment to community narratives.
Expanding Horizons
Launch of Mission Succeed dropout prevention program marks our first comprehensive initiative, following students from elementary through middle school. This evolves into Community Bridges, San Francisco’s first Beacon Initiative.
Finding Our Home
The organization establishes its permanent home on 16th Street, creating a hub for student support and community engagement that continues to serve families today.
Kid Power Park Initiative
Student leaders launch a transformative campaign for the North Mission’s first public park. Through persistent advocacy, youth secure $2 million in funding and collaborate with city officials on the park’s design and development.
Community Vision Realized
Kid Power Park opens, standing as a testament to youth leadership and community action. The park remains a symbol of what’s possible when young people are supported in creating positive change.
Mission Graduates Born
Organization rebrands as Mission Graduates, focusing on college access and family engagement. Launch of College Connect and Parent Partner Program marks a new era of comprehensive student and family support.
Growing Our Impact
Extended Day Program expands to Bryant Elementary, beginning a period of significant growth in school partnerships and student reach.
Stronger Together
Joins Mission Promise Neighborhood Initiative alongside 26 other nonprofits, strengthening our collective impact through cradle-to-career support.
Building Momentum
Programs extend to Flynn Elementary and return to Everett Middle School through Mission Community Beacon, deepening our community presence.
High School Focus
College access programming expands to John O’Connell High School, strengthening our commitment to supporting students through critical college preparation years.
Network of Support
Programs expand to include Sanchez Elementary, Thomas Edison Charter Academy, Alvarado Elementary, Mission High School, and Cleveland Elementary, creating pathways across San Francisco.
Adapting and Growing
Despite pandemic challenges, Mission Graduates launches ASAP at Mission High School and Beacon Program at Bessie Carmichael, demonstrating resilience and commitment to student support.
2021: Celebrating 50 Years
Marks half a century of serving San Francisco youth and families, having grown from a neighborhood tutoring center to a comprehensive educational support organization serving over 5,000 students and families annually.
Mayor’s Commendation
Mayor’s commendation recognizes Mission Graduates’ five decades of supporting San Francisco youth and families, celebrating the dedication of our community and the lasting impact of our work across generations.
Renovated Office, Renewed Commitment
We celebrated the renovation of our office on 16th Street, reaffirming our commitment to staying rooted in the Mission District community we’ve served for over five decades.
2026: Looking Forward
Continues to expand impact across San Francisco, focusing on addressing learning gaps and creating equitable pathways to higher education and fulfilling careers.
Be Part of Our Next Chapter
We’re looking for passionate individuals to help continue our legacy of educational support and community building.
Have questions about our programs or history? We’re happy to share more about our work and impact.