To say that Old Skool Cafe is a great organization would be an understatement. I first learnt about OSC as I was searching online for a social enterprise for one of my Masters course. This project required me to participate in a social action project that would have me work alongside the leadership of an existing social enterprise. The purpose of the project was to develop a deep understanding of all the themes of the course; faith, ethics, diversity, and philanthropy. What I got out of my time volunteering for OSC was more than just a deeper understanding of all themes. OSC is dedicated, committed, and thrives to change and transform the lives of the youth they serve. The staff love the work that they do, and it's evident through their many success stories. I was impressed at the support the entire staff give to these young people, they are not only transforming families, but communities through their hard work, love for what they do, and incredible diverse team.
I am very impressed with the heart of this organization. Based in the Bay Area, Old Skool Cafe offers the community a place where the local youth can spend their time learning how to cook, entertain, and create a unique lifestyle as a young adult. Their awards and reputation is very positive around the city. Their partners around the city are happy to work with them to create their successful events.
Review from Guidestar
I first heard about Old Skool Cafe through a friend, and have been consistently impressed with their effective and creative work in one of the most difficult and dangerous areas in San Francisco. Their compassion and heart for the people they serve shines through everything they do, and they stretch resources to make the biggest impact. Wonderful leadership, great vision...
Review from Guidestar
Old Skool Cafe is a great organization that brings out the best in the at-risk youth in the San Francisco/Bay Area. The staff has a strong desire to have a consistent connection with the participants in the program. I chose to intern with Old Skool Cafe to gain some experience in marketing and event planning. So far I have been impressed with the high standards, Teresa Goines (founder), holds of her staff, volunteers, and youth. The goals and passion Teresa carries will prove to be a guiding factor in the success of Old Skool in San Francisco. This organization will not stop at anything to get the message out to the public and youth who can potentially need it. Old Skool is not only a place where the youth learn much needed job skills, but it is also a second home for them.
Review from Guidestar
My family and I moved to San Francisco about 2 years ago from Washington state, talk about culture shock. I recently became a part of Old Skool Cafe and I couldn't have asked for a more fulfilling job. I met the founder Teresa Goines through a mutual friend and immediately I was compelled to learn more about her organization and vision. The heart of this program drew my to tears, I to have a similar passion, I volunteered for 3 years at a juvenile detention center because I believe that there is hope for at-risk youth. I love what Teresa has done and is doing, she is making dreams come true and I have witnessed it first hand. She gives these youth opportunities in culinary arts, performing arts,as well work experience in the restaurant industry. She gives them a vision for their future. The team that is helping her facilitate this is by far one of the most stellar teams I have ever been a part of, so much skill in talent in such a small group. Being a part of this organization has given me perspective on life and strengthened my passion for those in need.
Review from Guidestar
I moved to San Francisco from San Diego to work with the youth of Old Skool Cafe. I was already working in "normal" jobs, not really making a difference in people, aside from the charity work I did in the job. I wanted to really enrich others, and connect with a community that needed to believe they could achieve anything. What needs to happen now (I've been here one month) is the youth that have been working with OSC for a few events, need to turn it around and teach others the same values they've learned. It will affect the whole city after a while.
Review from Guidestar
This is a great organization that is starting small but because it was created out of a community need and is based in that neighborhood, will only grow and truly bring about change. The youths experience is nothing short of life-altering and this is a real life model of what an organic, grass-roots organization should be.
