Frequently Asked Questions

What is YEF and how is it associated with PACA?

YEF, the Youth Empowerment Fund, is a program under the San Francisco YMCA that provides grants to students in order to support and amplify youth voices. PACA's curriculum is centered around helping youth create projects which provide them with the option of applying for YEF's grants. Advocates are able to receive help through grant application workshops and direct help from YEF's community funders. However, the community funders associated with PACA will not be reviewing the applications sent in by PACA advocates, their applications will be reviewed by those unaffiliated with PACA to prevent bias.

How is PACA youth-led?

Although we have an adult supervisor to follow YMCA guidelines, PACA's curriculum, webinars, and programs were created and are completely led by high schoolers. 

Do you need experience in advocacy to become a part of PACA?

Everyone starts somewhere! Depending on the role you are interested in, you may not need to have experience in advocacy although it would be helpful. Anyone and everyone is welcome as long as you hold an interest in learning.

What is the structure of PACA? How many people are involved?

Leadership < Mentors < Advocates

PACA's leadership team creates the curriculum and is in charge of all things technical. Our leadership team trains mentors who then aid their advocates in 1:1 meetings to form projects and ideas surrounding advocacy. We currently have 2 advisors, 7 people on leadership, 6 mentors, and 8 advocates, but there is no fixed amount in each cohort.

What types of projects can be developed under PACA?

Any project can be developed under PACA as long as it falls within our moral guidelines. We do not limit the creativity of our advocates :)

How does PACA approve community service hours?

Our adult supervisor is able to sign and complete the paperwork necessary if asked.