If you were to walk down any street in the Tenderloin, stop a person at random and ask them “Do you know Leigh James”, the most immediate response would be an ear-to-ear grin and an exclamatory “of course!”.  For the past 3 years, Leigh has been at the head of the job search department at the St. Anthony Foundation.  She has helped countless members of the community prepare resumes and cover letters, learn interview techniques and secure jobs.

Last week marked Leigh’s last days at St. Anthony’s.  It is difficult to measure her influence and impact on the clients she has had over the years.  As the Program Assistant at the front desk of the Tenderloin Technology Lab for the last 4 months, I have been able to speak at length with clients who have worked directly with Leigh.  The most common descriptions I have heard are ‘dedicated’, ‘personable’, ‘meticulous’ and ‘on top of it’.  You can tell that people have gotten more out of their time with Leigh than simply a resume or a job search tip; they have found inspiration, someone who is willing to take the time and energy to help them.

Ultimately, this is what St. Anthony represents.  Larger than the sum of it’s parts, it’s programs and services, it is about empowering the individual through community bonds. In this regard, Leigh has left a very large pair of shoes to fill.   The Foundation, it’s employees and it’s clients, wish Leigh the best of luck on her journey.

St. Anthony Foundation Executive Director Fr. John Hardin celebrates his 60th birthday today. Happy Birthday, Big Kahuna!

As you know, St. Anthony’s is renowned for our holistic network of services providing free food, housing, clothing, medical care, and other vital resources to those in need. Soon we’ll be renowned for one more thing: soccer! That’s right, St. Anthony’s new soccer team–the Bad Habits–has just kicked off its first season with a bang. Each monday, we bring together all of your favorite St. Anthony’s staff for an evening of rip-roaring soccer excitement. Ever wonder how a grantwriter fares on the soccer field? Come by and see for yourself!

Where: Silver Terrace Playground – At the intersection of Silver and Bayshore
map

When:
Monday 10/13/08, 8:20pm vs. the Slicks
Monday 10/20/08, 6:20pm vs. FC 3300
Monday 10/27/08, 8:20pm vs. the Flying Pigs
Monday 11/03/08, 6:30pm vs. Chocolate Salt
Monday 11/10/08, 7:25pm vs. Phoenix FC

Hope to see you there!!!

Click here to read the inside of the card

A few weeks back we blogged about our Backpack Giveaway in San Francisco’s Tenderloin. Hundreds of kids in the neighborhood got their choice of a new backpack, loaded with school supplies, along with a few healthy snacks. This is event is many of our staff’s favorite day, many of us staying late to volunteer. Helping our youngest and most vulnerable neighbors prepare for a new school year is a reward unto itself. You can only begin to imagine our surprise when we were given these hand written and decorated cards from two of the children who received backpacks.  To Alan and Vanessa: You’re quite welcome! Make us proud, learn lots, and do your very best.