Oasis For Girls

I was an office intern for the organization for Fall 2007 and it was amazing. I worked with the staff and got to know Oasis programming, mission, and participants through my indirect contact. It was a fantastic place to work and the goals of Oasis are inspiring.
The organization is expanding and because I was behind the scenes, I was able to see what goes into the programming that is aimed to benefit the young women of SF.
Support it, join in, or simply attend an event– because this org is kick-​ass and must continue reaching out and giving to the SOMA community and girls from all over SF.

«Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.» –Dr. Seuss
Once you step inside the doors of this SoMa non-​profit whose mission it is «to provide a safe space where girls and young women are inspired and empowered to become strong and creative women in their communities» you want to be a part of its energy. For an organization so small, it is incredible the work that gets done here.
Oasis serves girls and young women ages 10 — 20 through Arts, Leadership Development and Life Skills programs. Most of these girls and young women are low-​income and immigrant and as such face a number of obstacles on the path to success. And yet when I walked into their tiny space at 1129 Folsom Street I was not struck by their disadvantages but by the supreme hope, courage, faith and dedication that exists inside these walls. I also immediately thought that if these girls and young women could triumph over their myriad challenges surely I, having far less to face in my own life, could help in some way.
My initial point of entry at Oasis was leading a workshop (now I serve as an Executive Volunteer). Since then I’ve found it hard to keep from regaling people with tales of how inspired I am by Oasis and the girls and young women involved in its programs. The organization is staffed by three extraordinary women who model independence, compassion and strength daily. And the young women and girls they serve are equally amazing.
Sometimes we are so consumed by our daily routines that we forget to ask how we can help the world, how we can serve others; how we can give of the abundance we are so lucky to have.
If you’re asking yourself these questions right now, I have a few ideas for you!
If you are a woman abundant in time Oasis is always looking for tutors, mentors and supporters for the girls.
If you are a person looking to give financially you can write a check to Oasis or make your donation on-​line:
Or maybe you already own something you could donate?:
Oasis For Girls «Wish List»
Pro-​bono printing/​marketing materials
Shelving (3 – 4 units)
Cubby holes or storage for book bags
Big sturdy table for computers
Computer or desk chairs (4)
Medium and large cooking pot
Chairs that fold or stack easily
Lamps or light fixtures (3 – 4)
(2) Comfy armchairs or (1) love seat
Bright color area rug
(1) Futon or couch
Colander
Mac G4 or G5 iBook
Mac G5
slide projector
IKEA gift certificates
SAT and ACT prep books
Board games and puzzles
Girl Trouble– Documentary Film
My point in all this is simple. Everyone has something they can give. And that’s why I’m asking. John D. Rockefeller might have said it best, «Think of giving not as a duty but as a privilege.»
UPDATE:
If you are interested in finding out more about this amazing organization and how you can become involved, please join us for our Community Connection Night on Monday, February 12^th from 6:30 — 7:30 pm — message me for details!