Explore the Koshland Program neighborhoods and fellows since it was established in 1982.
1980s
1983-1988 Western Addition (San Francisco)
Bringing Two Communities Together: Harmonizing Japanese and African American Youth
In the first Koshland community, located in the Western Addition of San Francisco, awardee Jack Martens, a dedicated music teacher at Benjamin Franklin Middle School, utilized his award funds to purchase musical instruments for his aspiring young musicians. Recognizing that music has the power to unite young people, Martens established a working band at the school. This initiative led to the formation of “The Band from Ben,” where a diverse group of students came together to create music. Many of these students had no prior musical experience, yet they evolved into a cohesive and highly skilled ensemble. Over time, this group performed at various events throughout the city, showcasing their talent and dedication. “The Band from Ben” continues to thrive today, embodying Martens’ spirit and utilizing the same instruments that were purchased back in 1983.
Learn more about the impact of this work in the community.
Western Addition Fellows: Burl Toler, Jeff Mori, Louise Harvey, Thomatra Scott, Jack Martens, Maurice James, Althea Foster, Sister Cathryn De Back, Natalie Lopez, Raye and Julian Richardson
1984-1989 Potrero Hill (San Francisco)
Education not Prison
On Potrero Hill, Jack Jaqua co-founded the nationally recognized Omega Boys Club/Street Soldiers (now known as Alive and Free) at the Potrero Hill Neighborhood House. Recognizing youth violence as a public health issue, Jaqua and Joseph Marshall—who was honored with the 2006 SFF Community Leadership Award and is a MacArthur Fellow—expanded their focus beyond tutoring and basketball. They developed effective strategies that guided youth toward socially constructive alternatives to violence. One notable initiative involved organizing annual tours for groups of teenagers to historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), providing them with exposure to educational opportunities and positive role models.
Potrero Hill Fellows: Gus Portocarrero, John Murphy, Ruth Passen, Enola Maxwell, Jack Jacqua, Barbara Gregory, Jon Greenberg
1985-1990
1985-1990 Visitacion Valley (San Francisco)
Lifting Up Our Youth: A Safe and Supportive Space for Young People
Visitacion Valley, a diverse working-class San Francisco neighborhood, faced challenges like high crime rates and poverty in the 1980s. Despite these hardships, the community maintained a strong sense of spirit and commitment to improvement. The “Lifting Up Our Youth” program provided a safe and supportive space for young people, contributing to the overall well-being of the community and fostering hope and resilience.
Visitacion Valley Fellows: Vernon Long, Carlos Magana, Sam Ho., M.D., Pastor Jim Pittman, Patricia Christensen, Julie Kavanaugh
Special Project Recognition: Anne Kaartunen (VIPS), Kim Kelly, R.N. (HealthAmerica Rockridge Medical Center), Toussaint Streat, M.D. (HealthAmerica Rockridge Medical Center)
1989-1994 Elmhurst (Oakland)
Individuals Make a Difference: Intergenerational Community Programming
Oral Lee Brown, an Elmhurst resident, had just adopted an entire kindergarten class when she received the Koshland Award. She promised the children that she would fund each child’s college education if and when they graduated from high school. Brown designated the school as her nonprofit of choice, and 17 years later she assisted 89 students with their college education.
Elmhurst Fellows: James Sweeney, DDS, Napoleon Sims, Phebia Richardson, Ira Jinkins, Lonnie Dillard, Stanley Garcia, Oral Lee Brown, Eddie Abrams, Henry Perry, Ann Bouie, Eddie Mae Jones, LeeNell Jennings, Charles Hill, Wilbert Lee, Willie Porter
1990s
1990-1995 Tenderloin (San Francisco)
Movers and Shakers Work Together
In 1990, the Tenderloin – a neighborhood that had virtually no children residents until the influx of Southeast Vietnamese families in 1975 – suddenly found itself with 5,000 children, no schools, and only one playground. Koshland Fellows founded the Tenderloin Neighborhood Scholarship Fund, ensuring that over 300 low-income students living in the Tenderloin can pursue higher education with college scholarships.
Tenderloin Fellows: Midge Wilson, David Tran, John Philbrook, Nancy Ong, Richard Livingston, Louella Lee, Keith Grier, Mary Dickey, Kelly Cullen, Sara Colm, Puthara Chuop, Diana Wong Chin
1990-1995 West Oakland (Oakland)
Supporting Families Through Schools
After the Loma Prieta Earthquake of 1989, the Koshland Program supported capacity building to strengthen participating organizations such as Prescott Elementary School, West Oakland Health Center, Stepping Stones Growth Center, and Healthy Babies.
West Oakland Fellows: Dr. Issac Slaughter, Majeedah Rahman, Gayle Quinn, Bonnie Noble, William McDavid, Lee Hayes, Frances Harris, Robin Edwards, Patricia Nelson Doyle, Maria Distler, Francis Calpotura, Bill Belford, Bill McDavid
1990-1994 Koshland Youth Fellowship Program (KYFP)
Koshland Youth Fellowship
Recognizing the continual need for new leadership, the Koshland Youth Fellowship Program was a one-year leadership and development training program for up to 12 youth ages 16 to 19 years old. The program focused on amplifying the strengths of youth with a commitment to providing them with a wide range of options for the future. The goals of the program were to expand the horizon and visions of each fellow by exposing them to many positive experiences that they would not ordinarily encounter. The fellowship also provided the fellows with the necessary skills to achieve their own goals, and to strengthen their leadership skills to become successful leaders in their communities.
Youth Fellows: Tyler Eison, Nicole Flowers, Marshell Foggy, Brandy Hamilton, Kahlil Greer, Kevin Mangelsdorf, Everett Patton, Miles Scott, Deanna Simms, Yeulita Wallace, Arthur Williams, Jabari Anderson, Mark Anderson, Sonya Bridges, Antoine Davis, Shawn
Walker, Keith Lau, William Newhouse, Demetria Titus, Michale White, Noukoun Lattanaphom, Sheryl Simmons, Leybi Cali, Gerardo Campos, Benita Davis, Toni Dula, Kaleas Johnson, Allen Lui, Kenneth Miller, Tamekia Mosley, Tytus Taylor, Otmar Van Tholl, Angela Williams, Hodari Davenport, Kenan Delgado, Cindy Nguyen, Bryan Patton, Katie Powell, Tamika Titus, Erika Woodson, Richard Vargas, Cindy Wu, Henry Zhou, Samantha Knight, Gia Lujan, Denale Drumgo
1991-1996 Mission (San Francisco)
Celebration of Cultures
The Mission District, once primarily Latino, saw a surge of Southeast Asian immigrants in the late 20th century. This cultural mix led to challenges, including gang violence. The “Celebration of Cultures” program initiated by Koshland Fellows, aimed to bridge these divides. By supporting youth programs, it offered safe spaces, mentorship, and educational opportunities, helping to combat negative influences and foster a stronger community.
Mission Fellows: Collette Sweeney, Emmanuel Stewart, Concha Saucedo, Santiago “Sam” Ruiz, Abby Rodriguez, Johnetta Johnson, Martha Estrella, Esperanza Echavarri, Ray Balberan
1992-1997 Central and North Richmond (Richmond)
Grassroots Leadership
Central and North Richmond faced significant challenges in the 1990s as it was plagued by HIV/AIDS, drugs, and violence. The “Grassroots Leadership” program empowered residents to address these issues. Through initiatives focused on environmental justice and community development, they established a needle exchange, united diverse seniors, and implemented various environmental programs. These efforts contributed to improved health, social justice, and a more sustainable community.
Central and North Richmond Fellows: Margery “Miss Pie” Woodward, Martha Watson, Choy Saephan, C.A. Robertson, Jackie Malbrough, Annette Lerma, Taalia Hasan, Arthur “Bubba” Godfrey, Claudette Garner, Robert Creer, Henry Clark, Bobby Bowens, Rev. Sheila Cook, Richard Bowley
1995-2000 Oceanview-Merced-Ingleside – OMI (San Francisco)
We Stand Up, We Fall Down: Keep Your Eye On OMI
OMI, once a middle-class neighborhood, faced challenges including disenfranchised youth and rising crime. In response, Vision 2000, a collaborative initiative, brought together community organizations to address these issues. Through this effort, the community established essential services, fostered engagement, and celebrated cultural diversity, improving the overall quality of life.
Oceanview-Merced-Ingleside Fellows: Agnes Morton, Robert Sams, James
Threat, James Haskell Mayo, Audrey Davis, Toney Chaplin, Ronald Madson, Peter Vaernet, Rev. Richard Miller, Gil Gordon, Darlene Franklin, Doris Machen, Larry Chew, Richard Rubio, Lovie and Minnie Ward, Reverend Michael Roland ordon, Marcella and Lenneal Henderson, Ahimsa Sumchai, Deborah Sims
1996- 2001 Chinatown (San Francisco)
Leaving a Legacy: Coming Together to Get Things Done
Chinatown, a historic San Francisco neighborhood, has faced challenges like poverty and language barriers. The cohort played a crucial role in addressing these issues. Through initiatives such as technology training for individuals with disabilities and disaster preparedness resources, they empowered residents and served the diverse needs of the Chinatown community.
Chinatown Fellows: Norman Yee, Darwin Ow-Wing, Sai-Ling Chan-Sew, Peter Ng, Harvey Louie, Nancy Lim-Yee, Kimiko Leong, Marie Lee, Mamie Lee, Rosalyn Koo, Gilbert Jue, Mei Lin Hom, Mai Mai Ho, Greta Yin, Norman Fong, Harry Chuck, Vanessa Chan
1997-2002 San Antonio (Oakland)
Promoting Solidarity, Uplifting Community Leadership
The diverse neighborhood of San Antonio faced challenges with youth violence and cultural clashes. Koshland Fellows played a significant role in addressing these issues through programs supporting at-risk youth, promoting community leadership, and strengthening local businesses. Their involvement helped create a more resilient and vibrant community.
San Antonio Fellows: Father Jeff Acebo, Mary Biasotti, Sonia Del Torro, Rotynia Adams, John K. Chao, Olive Freeman, Don Davenport, John Gruntfest, Chandy May, San Sun, Darren Masayesva, TyRenae McCowan,
Helen Shor, Les Miller, Lizbet Simmons
1998-2003
1998-2003 West Boulevard., El Pueblo, Parkside, and Downtown (Pittsburg)*
Celebrating Community Diversity
The diverse and growing region of East Contra Costa County faced challenges related to social inequality and cultural preservation. Koshland Fellows’ efforts revitalized the arts and cultural scene. Through the Pittsburg Multicultural Resource Center and various programs, they promoted multicultural relations, supported youth, and provided opportunities for artistic expression. By offering grants, sponsoring events, and supporting mentorship, they empowered individuals and organizations to contribute to the community’s cultural vibrancy and social cohesion.
West Boulevard, El Pueblo, Parkside, and Downtown Fellows: Nohemi Beitzel, Joyce Adams, Jeff Bentley, Jaime Bolanos, Arthur Fernandez, Juanita Dailey, Patricia Firpo, Frances Greene, Raul Herrera, Paulette Lagana, James Logan, Yolanda Marquez, Guillermo “Bill” Muniz, Carmen Ochoa, Abigail Perez, Ruby Raju, Mary Rocha, Dr. Jerry Rice, Rose Mary Tumbaga, Sheila
Cromwell, Fatima Romera
1999-2004
1999-2004 Bayshore, Crocker (Daly City)*
Two Neighborhoods Come Together
Historically marginalized Midway Village faced significant environmental challenges. With support from the Koshland Foundation, the cohort established programs in local community centers, offering resources to seniors, youth, and families. Initiatives focused on music, computers, and neighborhood beautification improved quality of life, preserved cultural heritage, and promoted environmental justice.
Bayshore, Crocker Fellows: LaDonna Williams, Ruben Urbina, Frances Robinson, Carol Forest, Joseph Keh, Kermit Leong, Ivy Mok, Laura O’Reilly, Lorali Palma, Nancy Flores, Estella Cirilio, MC Canlas, Lula Bishop, Frank and Leah Berlanga, Irma Anderson, John Pleskach
2000s
2000-2005 Canal (San Rafael)
Welcoming Newcomers to the Canal Community
The Canal neighborhood in San Rafael experienced significant demographic changes. The Koshland Fellows played a crucial role in welcoming newcomers and fostering a sense of belonging. Through the Canal Welcome Center – now called the MultiCultural Center of Marin – and various programs, fellows provided essential services and support to immigrants and low-income families, contributing to the social, cultural, economic, and civic well-being of the community.
Canal Fellows: Evelina Molina, Carmen Rios-Ramirez, Nancy Ducos, Ramon Lopez, Freddy Escobar, Kenny Duran, Marjorie Delgadillo, John Ortega, Mark Flores, Troy Harris, Jeannette Sotomayor, David Escobar, Cio Hernandez, Man Minh Phan, John Young, Jr., Dave Donery, Nancy Tavolacci, Vinh Luu
2001-2006 South of Market (San Francisco)
Residents Unite
SoMA, a historically marginalized San Francisco neighborhood, remains a vibrant Filipino community despite gentrification. Through initiatives like the Resident Organizing and Leadership Program, Koshland Fellows nurtured residents as activists, provided resources, and created a platform for community-building. Additionally, they contributed to the growth of SOMCAM, supported the annual SoMA Fest, and created “The Southside” newsletter to disseminate information and preserve the neighborhood’s cultural heritage.
South of Market Fellows: Bobbie Washington-Corea, Teresa Vergel Yanga, Bernadette Sy, Antoinetta Stadlman, Bill Sorros, Karen Nolan, Ly Nguyen, Jill Weinberg Pfeiffer, Mary McCue, Patrice Johnson, Jack Davis, Judy Carman, Shirley Bierly, Jeanne Batallones, Judith Baker, Mary Aylward, Luisa Antonio, Craig Adelman
2002-2007 West Alameda (Alameda)
Fight the Power
West Alameda, a historically diverse working-class neighborhood, faced challenges like gentrification and displacement in the early 2000s. The cohort played a crucial role in addressing these issues. Through initiatives like the Share the Wealth Program, they supported local organizations, fostered community engagement, and advocated for the neighborhood’s needs. Their efforts contributed to the establishment of Ruby Bridges Elementary School, a significant milestone in West Alameda’s revitalization.
West Alameda Fellows: Michael Yoshii, Niel Tam, Vickie Smith, Amanda Krugen, Phil Holt, Rebecca Holder, Dr. Subhan Hatifie, Lester Louis Dixon, Beatriz Cortez, Tamara Centeno
2003-2008 Monument Corridor (Concord)
Preparing Youth for the Future
“Go Get It” (GGI), an afterschool program in Monument Corridor, Concord, provided academic support and mentorship to underserved youth and their families. It offered college prep, community service, and emergency assistance. GGI also supported families through eviction prevention, immigration assistance, medication purchases, and burial cost coverage. Additionally, it served seniors, established a youth soccer league, and developed leadership for local community groups.
Monument Corridor Fellows: Richard Tautuaa, Luz Sierra, Rosalia Salcedo, Carmen Elena Rodas, Maria Reyes, Ashok Patwardhan, Ed Nienow, Vicky Lizarraga, Mary Lou Laubscher, Diane Kennedy, Raquel Diaz, Benjamin Contreras
2004-2009 Iron Triangle (Richmond)
Preserving Cultural Heritage
The Iron Triangle Legacy Neighborhood Project, created by Koshland Fellows, documented and shared family migrations to Richmond, CA. Historically a shipbuilding and manufacturing center, the Iron Triangle faced challenges like gang violence and poverty. Organizations like Rubicon Programs Inc. provided affordable housing, employment, and other supportive services, contributing to the community’s resilience.
Iron Triangle Fellows: Maryella Warner, John Spradlin, Jordan Simmons, Rev. Andre Shumake, Sang Saephan, Jesus Nieto-Ruiz, Michael Henderson, Susie Garcia, Sharon Fuller, Fred Franklin, Faith Chege, Rosa Acosta
2006-2011 Bayview (San Francisco)
Inspiring Hope and Beautification of Community
The Bayview District, a historically marginalized San Francisco neighborhood, faced challenges like poverty and crime. The “Inspiring Hope and Beautification of Community” program revitalized the area. Through initiatives focused on beautification, arts, and culture, the cohort implemented projects like the Bayview Opera House mural and Old Skool Café. These efforts improved the neighborhood’s appearance, created cultural opportunities, and strengthened community bonds. Additionally, the cohort’s work leveraged significant funding for new resources like a library.
Bayview Fellows: Lydia Vincent, Saniko Togafau, Virgie Patterson-Newman, Misha Olivas, Diane Gray, Teresa Goines, Barbara Glaspie, Jackie Cohen
2007-2012 West Berkeley (Berkeley)
Youth Navigate Inequities
West Berkeley, a historically diverse working-class neighborhood, faced challenges like economic inequality and educational disparities. The “Youth Navigate Inequities” program empowered young people of color from low-income families. Through collective leadership, service, and a community website, the cohort successfully launched the REALM Charter School, providing educational opportunities for underserved students. By addressing systemic inequities, the cohort helped improve the prospects of young people in West Berkeley and contributed to a more equitable and just community.
West Berkeley Fellows: Ana Traylor, Lamont Snaer, Michael McBride, Belén Pulido Martínez, Gerardo Marin, David Manson, Victor Diaz, Matt Crocker
2008-2013 Ashland/Cherryland (Unincorporated Alameda County)*
Secured Land: Dig Deep Farms
Koshland Fellows in the unincorporated communities of Ashland and Cherryland funds Dig Deep Farms & Produce to create a vibrant, sustainable local food economy that grows jobs around healthy food, bringing fresh, healthy, affordable, organic produce grown close to home by urban farmers to low-income residents living in Alameda County.
Ashland/Cherryland Fellows: Amparo Ramos, Alfonso Macedo, JoAnn Irons, Maria Haro, Christen Gray, Susan Beck, Hilary Bass, Rafael Avendano, Shanale Allen
2009-2014 North Fair Oaks (Unincorporated Redwood City)
Ensuring A Bright Future for the Next Generation
Koshland Fellows started the North Fair Oaks Youth Initiative (NFOYI), a youth leadership program for 14- to 22-year-olds in North Fair Oaks, in unincorporated Redwood City. Their programs build new leadership opportunities where youth gain the skills and networks to be community leaders and role models for their peers and the entire community.
North Fair Oaks Fellows: Angelica Rodriguez, Silvia Ramirez, Lucia Molina, Cesar Meza-Esveile, Salvador Mejia, Priscila Jimenez-Pelaéz, Mary Hofstedt, Sister Christina Heltsley, Lorena Gonzalez, Teri Chin, Noel Chavez, Lydia Cardoza, Vicky Avila-Medrano
2010s
2010-2015 San Pablo (Contra Costa)
Connecting Youth and Their Families
San Pablo, a diverse working-class city, faced economic challenges due to the closure of manufacturing plants. The “Request for Proposal” process supported local organizations serving parents, youth, and families. Through this initiative, the cohort funded programs that addressed the community’s specific needs, providing essential resources and support to individuals and families. By fostering collaboration and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, the cohort contributed to the resilience and vitality of the San Pablo community.
San Pablo Fellows: Norma Valdez-Jimenez, Robert Turner, Nancy Thome, James Solis, Meuy Saephan, Gonzalo Rucobo, Alexina Rojas, Maria Resendiz, Lisa Raffel, Mayra Padilla, Khammany Mathavonsgy, LaZena Jones, Gladys Garza, Joseph Camacho, Humberto Alvarez
2011-2016 Excelsior (San Francisco)
Equitable Opportunities
The Excelsior District, a historically working-class San Francisco neighborhood, faced challenges like economic inequality and changing demographics. The “Equitable Opportunities” program addressed these issues. Through Excelsior Works!, the program provided educational and career opportunities for young people, helping to prepare them for success and improve the overall well-being of the Excelsior community.
Excelsior Fellows: Tiffani Marie Johnson, Terry Valen, Rene Luna, Rachel Ebora, Paulo Acosta, Nicole Agbayani, Joni Tam Chu, Jacquie Chavez, Charlie Sciammas, Carlton Eichelberger, Beth Rubenstein, Alex Tom
2013-2018 Bay Point (Contra Costa)
Promoting Youth Leadership
Bay Point, a diverse working-class community, faced challenges like economic inequality and crime. The cohort established the Bay Point Youth Academy to address these issues. Through the Academy, they provided educational opportunities, mentorship, and leadership development programs for young people. By offering extracurricular activities and partnering with community organizations, schools, and the Sheriff’s Department, the Academy helped bridge the opportunity gap, empower youth, and create pathways for educational and career advancement.
Bay Point Fellows:Deborah Roberts, Rande Ross, Cynthia Garrett, Trina Hudson, Lynsie Shatswell Castellano, Jovana (Edith) Vasquez, Paola Lara, Adrian Gomez
2014-2019 Jackson Triangle and Harder-Tennyson (South Hayward)*
Career Success and Upward Mobility
Jackson Triangle and Harder-Tennyson, diverse working-class neighborhoods in South Hayward, faced economic challenges. The cohort focused on Career Success and Upward Mobility. Through initiatives like the Community Scholarships JTHT Scholarship Fund, they provided educational opportunities and support to local students, contributing to the overall well-being of the communities and empowering residents.
South Hayward Fellows: Jason Arenas, Sonnye Brotherton, Emily Chow, Luis Covarrubias, Carla Dardon, Patricia Garcia, Gabriel Hernandez, Teresa Johnson, Sandra Mariela Moralez, Jasmine Nakagawa, Sandra Navarro, Denize Sanchez
2017-2022 Mission (San Francisco)
We The People – Community-Led Power, Collective Resiliency
The Mission District, a historically Latino San Francisco neighborhood, faced challenges like rising housing costs and displacement. The cohort created the Mission Community Power Institute to address these issues. Through tenant workshops, promotora training, and education on rights and protections, the Institute empowered residents and strengthened the community’s resilience against displacement and gentrification. By advocating for affordable housing and community-led power, the cohort contributed to preserving the Mission’s cultural heritage and ensuring a more equitable future.
Mission Fellows: Chirag Bhakta, Nadia Conrad, Eric Cuentos, Marilyn Duran, Jon Jacobo, Celina Lucero, Diana Martinez, Lorena Melgarejo, Dairo Romero, Sandra Sandoval, Lara Kiswani, Marisela Esparza
2019-2024 Canal (Marin)
Amplifying Community Leader Voices
The Canal neighborhood in San Rafael experienced significant demographic changes. The cohort focused on amplifying the voices of community leaders and empowering residents to take action on issues affecting their neighborhood. Through a two-year pilot program, they offered leadership training and workshops, equipping residents with the skills and knowledge to engage in community campaigns and initiatives. By focusing on intergenerational experiences and incorporating technology, environmental justice, arts, and community service projects, the cohort helped to build power within the Canal community and create a more equitable and sustainable neighborhood.
Canal participating organizations and staff advisors: Youth Leadership Institute: Wendy Pacheco and Samantha
Ramirez; Parent Services Project: Balandra Fregoso; formerly with Alcohol Justice, Maite Duran; formerly with Multicultural Center of Marin, Douglas Mundo
2020s
2022-2027 North Central (San Mateo)
Revitalization of King Center – a Neighborhood Anchor Organization
North Central San Mateo, a historically diverse working-class neighborhood, faced challenges like economic inequality and changing demographics. The current cohort, active from 2022 to 2027, is focused on revitalizing the King Center, a neighborhood anchor organization. By identifying community needs, building partnerships, and developing strategies for revitalization, the cohort aims to strengthen this important community asset and create a positive impact on North Central.
North Central Fellows: (back) Jennifer Plantenberg, Gladys Privado Pinzon, Evelia Chairez, Giselle Alvarez, Charels Hansen, Amourence “Amo” Lee, Lisa Tealer, Mignon “Mimi” Page-Broughton, Adriana Fernandez, (front) (green top and pants) Reyna Sandoval and Noelia Corzo