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Empowering San Francisco's Youth Since 1999

A comprehensive year-round academic enrichment program serving all youth ages 5-15 in District 11.

School Year

Operations: 10am - 6pm

Program: 3pm - 6pm

Summer Program

Operations: 8:30am - 5:30pm

Program: 10am - 1pm & 2pm - 5pm

Locations

801 Shields St. SF, CA

4095 19th Ave. SF, CA

One City Day / Family Day

Join us for an incredible day of community, fun, and celebration! Bring your family and friends to enjoy a packed schedule of exciting activities and resources.

  • Amusement Rides
  • Free food
  • Bounce house
  • Performances
  • Face painting
  • Photo Booth
  • Prizes
  • Games
  • Resource tables
  • Book mobile
One City Day - Family Day

About Youth 1st

Youth 1st was founded in 1999. We operate out of Merced Heights Playground, located in the heart of San Francisco's District 11 in the Lakeview neighborhood.

We are a comprehensive year-round academic enrichment program. We operate Monday through Friday and support youth in Math, Science, English, Language Arts, Reading, Arts & Crafts, Sports and Recreation. We focus heavily on skill development and effort.

Throughout the year, we offer educational field trips and host cultural celebrations for an all-inclusive experience. During summer months, we proudly employ local youth, giving them the opportunity to work in their community and earn scholarships.

Youth 1st Kids
Sun Reporter Recognition

Latest News

Talented 25: Congratulations to our Executive Director, Renard Monroe, on his recognition as one of the Sun-Reporter's Talented 25 for 2023.

Expansion: Youth 1st has opened its second location in District 11 @ 4095 19th Ave to better serve our Youth.

Read about Family Day, founded by Renard Monroe to bring access and opportunity to the District 11 community.

Our Beliefs & Philosophy

Research has shown that students attain the most academic success when their desire to learn is cultivated by going at their own pace.

Philosophy Image Methodology

Our Approach

We strive to achieve success by matching instruction to each child's style of learning and incorporating their interests. We assess the student's personality, interests, strengths, and opportunities for growth. We then map out a customized plan designed to help with areas that need improvement while cultivating areas where they are already successful.

Our Methodology

  • Comprehensive Assessment
  • Individualized lesson plans based on interest, strengths, and areas of opportunity
  • High-engagement instruction
  • One-on-one tutoring and careful monitoring

How Youth 1st Helps

Year-Round Support

  • We customize our program to fit each child's unique needs.
  • We evaluate strengths and opportunities so we know exactly where to begin.
  • We create a personal learning plan that adapts to each child's level and pace. Children feel engaged and motivated – never frustrated, rushed or bored.
  • We balance tailored instruction with independent practice, advancing skills while ensuring it remains fun.
  • We measure progress and collaborate heavily with parents to ensure goals are met.

"At Youth 1st, Education Is The Best Investment You Can Make For Your Child."

Services

Meet The Team

Renard Monroe

Renard Monroe

Executive Director

Lisa Wiley

Lisa Wiley

Lifetime Staff Member

Melvin Cotton

Melvin Cotton

Staff Lead

Veronica Meriweather

Veronica Meriweather

Academic Tutor & Boxing

Dylan Branch

Dylan Branch

Early Education Instructor

Kevin Hicks

Kevin Hicks

Skateboard Instructor

Ahmad Walker

Ahmad Walker

Art Instructor

Hakeem Bey

Hakeem Bey

Learning Specialist

Elizabeth Ambrocio

Elizabeth Ambrocio

Asst. Learning Specialist

Rebecka Quezadah

Rebecka Quezadah

After-School Club Asst.

Ada Robi Kassaye

Ada Robi Kassaye

Asst. Specialist & Dance

Club Assistants

Ariana Vasquez

Chiamaka Onwuli

Alejandra Martinez

Lizbeth Rodriguez

Contact Us

Phone 415-349-2015

Email firstyouth1st@gmail.com

Merced Heights Location 801 Shields St.
San Francisco, CA 94132

District 11 Location 4095 19th Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94132

Fiscal Sponsor San Francisco Study Center

Funded By San Francisco Department of Children, Youth and Families

Youth First Kids