Volunteers who show up for young people
Volunteer Appreciation Month offers a moment to recognize the many individuals and organizations who support young people across San Francisco. Their contributions often take place behind the scenes, but they shape the consistency and quality of programs in meaningful ways.
A recent example comes from First Bank. Members from across the San Francisco Bay Area spent the day assembling STEAM kits for youth in CYC programs. Designed by Child Creativity Lab, the kits support hands-on learning, giving young people opportunities to build, experiment, and explore ideas together.
Kelly Huang, a manager at First Bank, shared why the activity resonated with the team. “Hands-on activities give students the opportunity to learn and explore,” she said. “They build confidence and problem-solving skills beyond the classroom.”
For First Bank, volunteering is part of an ongoing effort to stay connected to the community. The initiative brought together staff across the organization, reflecting a shared commitment to contributing time and effort where it is needed. “For our team it’s very meaningful,” Huang said. “Everyone from the bank goes out to support the community and be part of something that makes an impact.”
Juliet Pantino, Community Development Officer at First Bank, noted that the effort also responds to how young people are learning today. “We wanted to support organizations that have a need for educational programs and hands-on learning opportunities during the summer months,” she explained. Activities like STEAM kits offer young people a chance to step away from screens and engage with something they can build and explore.
The day also reflects how First Bank approaches partnership more broadly. “Community is more than a word. It’s something you show up for,” Pantino said. “Showing up for our nonprofit partners who work hard to support their communities is something we’re very passionate about.”
Stacy Clay, Chief of Culture at First Bank echoes this sentiment, “Community partnerships are very important to First Bank, it’s a reflection of who First Bank is at its core. We want to build long, sustainable relationships with our nonprofit partners to help them be successful in their mission.”
Volunteers like the team from First Bank are part of a wider network that helps sustain CYC programs. Whether preparing materials, supporting events, or engaging directly with youth, these contributions strengthen the environments where young people learn, connect, and grow.
That work is most effective when it continues over time. As Pantino shared, “Community partnerships are a reflection of who First Bank is at its core. We want to build long, sustainable relationships with our nonprofit partners to help them be successful in their mission.”
CYC is grateful for the trust, time, and care that volunteers continue to offer. These partnerships help sustain the work day to day and strengthen the foundation that allows young people across San Francisco to move forward with confidence.
Explore current volunteer opportunities and take the next step to get involved with CYC.
We also extend our thanks to Child Creativity Lab for providing the materials that made this STEAM activity possible.