Event Info •Event Activities •A New Vision
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May 11th, 2024· 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm· Crane Cove Park
Free Admission · Special VIP Experience
LIVE MUSIC
ACTIVITIES FOR ALL AGES
FUN AND GAMES
DELICIOUS FOOD
Historically, Y for Youth has been a traditional luncheon or banquet tailored to a few hundred donors and sponsors. This year, we are breaking the mold and throwing a celebration grounded in community, filled with activities and entertainment for people of all ages. We're particularly thrilled because later this fall, we will open our newest Y facility in this vibrant location. Learn more about this new location coming soon.
Whether you're a kid by age or at heart, everyone is welcome to join in the celebration. Let's come together to honor the youth in our community, raise critical funds to support them and embrace the joy they bring to our lives in this immersive and lively festivalenvironment.
GENERAL ADMISSION VIP EXPERIENCE
BECOME A SPONSOR BECOME A VOLUNTEER
MAKE A GIFT
A CHAMPION ON AND OFF THE COURT: HONORING FESTUS EZELI
A CHAMPION ON AND OFF THE COURT: HONORING FESTUS EZELIWe are thrilled to announce this year’s Y For Youth Honoree, Golden State Warriors Champion, Festus Ezeli. Festus will be joining us on Saturday May 11th, 2024 at Y For Youth Community Festival, to be formally honored with the prestigious Charles M. Collins Youth Impact Award. This award, established in honor of former YSF CEO Chuck Collins and his dedication to improving the lives of Bay Area youth, recognizes individuals who embody this same spirit of service.
A champion both in the community and on the NBA court, Festus Ezeli has been deeply committed to improving the lives of youth and families across the Bay Area, especially in the Bayview-Hunters Point and Dogpatch neighborhoods of San Francisco. Among his many acts of service and care, each holiday season Festus brings friends and family together at the Bayview YMCA to serve hundreds of Thanksgiving meals, share stories and laughs with community members. Festus has also sponsored free sports clinics teaching hundreds of youth not only basketball skills but more importantly life skills such as hard work, honesty, and community building. Festus’ commitment to uplifting youth and his care for the community truly inspires us. We could not imagine a better honoree to recognize and celebrate in 2024, especially as we kick off our new community-centered vision for Y For Youth.
Main Stage Schedule
12:00 pm - 1:30 pm YMCA Global Rhythms Extravaganza
- Featuring Taiko Drumming, Hula Dance, Tinikling Dance, and Lion Dance
2:00 pm - 2:30 pm Octopretzel (Set 1)
2:45 pm - 3:30 pmOctopretzel (Set 2)
3:45 pm - 4:00 pm Honoring Festus Ezeli
4:00 pm - 4:45 pm Alphabet Rockers
5:15 pm - 6:00 pm Bayonics
6:00 pm - 6:30 pm Surprise Giveaways
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Con Brio
May is Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month
We are proud to partner with the APA Heritage Foundation this May to promote the public awareness of Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Learn more about the amazing work APA Heritage Foundation is doing here.
Help us spread the word about this inaugural festival by telling a friend or two or three!
For any questions, please contact SYREN JORDAN at djordan@ymcasf.org.
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS Y FOR YOUTH?
Y for Youth Community Festival celebrates the power and potential of young people and raises critical funds to grow and sustain our Bay Area youth programs.
WHEN & WHERE IS THE EVENT?
Saturday May 11th, 2024, Crane Cove Park, situated in the Dogpatch Neighborhood in San Francisco, 18th @Illinois St, San Francisco, CA 94107
Open to the public 12PM – 9PM
WHAT KIND OF PARK IS CRANE COVE PARK?
Crane Cove Park is a 7-acre urban park located on the San Francisco waterfront with a rocky beach, green space, picnic tables, barbecue grills, and walking paths. Together with our community and partnerships, the Y of San Francisco is investing in a new facility that re-envisions Building 49 in the Dogpatch at Crane Cove.
WHAT IS THE EVENT FORMAT?
Historically, Y for Youth has been a traditional luncheon or banquet tailored to a few hundred donors and sponsors. This year, we are breaking the mold and throwing a celebration grounded in community, filled with food, activities, and entertainment for people of all ages. We'll also be honoring Golden State Warriors Champion Festus Ezeli, who will receive the prestigious Charles M. Collins Youth Impact Award in recognition of his commitment to Bay Area youth, mirroring the dedication of our former CEO Chuck Collins. We will also have a chance for those who feel inspired to make a 100% tax deductible donation to the support the YMCA of San Francisco youth programs & services.
WHO CAN ATTEND?
All ages are welcome! General Admission to the festival is free! You can register your party online beforehand for a chance to win a prize. There's also a VIP Experience available for purchase.
WHAT TYPE OF ACTIVITIES WILL THERE BE?
Live Music & Peformances (Local Bands include Octopretzel, Alaphabet Rockers, Bayonics, & Con Brio)
Performances by Marin Y Hawaiian Dance Group, Japanese Taiko by Drum Revolution, Filipino Tinkling by Barangay, Chinese Lion Dancers by My Yang
Family Dance (Hip Hop & Latin Dance)
Booths showcasing the YMCA of San Francisco programs & collaborations with our external partners
Art Exhibit displaying local youth artwork
Face Painting
Balloon Animals
Local Food Trucks
Soccer Demonstrations & Play
Paddleboard Rentals
Lawn Games (Corn Hole, Giant Jenga, Giant Connect Four, Ladder Toss, and others)
Please note, swimming in not allowed, wading in designated areas is okay but it’s important to keep 300 feet from piers and vessels
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WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE VIP EXPERIENCE?
The VIP Experience offers exclusive perks like a covered tent with seating, private restrooms, complimentary food and drinks, special Y for Youth program access, an exclusive gift, a meet and greet, and premium reserved seating for the headliners.
WHAT IS THE ATTIRE?
San Francisco weather can be a bit of a wildcard, so come prepared for anything! We're hoping for sunshine, but it's a good idea to wear layers. Our foggy friend Karl sometimes likes to join the party, so bring a jacket or windbreaker just in case. This is a family-friendly event, with lots of activities, dancing and games so comfort and casual attire are perfect. Note: This event is set for rain or shine!
WHAT SHOULD/CAN I BRING?
Yourself, your friends, family, and anyone in between!
Identification – while admission is free, you will need proof of age if purchasing alcohol
Cash or Credit Card – there will be food, drinks, and limited-edition Y For Youth t-shirts & sweatshirts available to purchase. There will also be opportunities to make a 100% tax deductible donation to support our youth programs and services.
Sunscreen, hat, jacket – San Francisco weather can be unpredictable!
We will have water stations, but we recommend bringing a reusable water bottle
Dancing Shoes – we have a great line up of local artists!
Lawn Chairs/Blankets
Outside alcohol, glass containers, illegal substances or weapons are prohibited
CAN I BRING OUTSIDE FOOD/BEVERAGES?
You can bring outside food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy at the festival. Outside alcohol and glass containers are not permitted. A variety of food and beverages will be available for purchase from vendors for those who prefer not to bring their own. Note: You must be 21 years of age to purchase alcohol. Anyone who wishes to purchase alcoholic beverages will be required to show a valid photo ID and will be issued a wristband. Security will be monitoring the area to ensure alcohol is only consumed by people of legal drinking age wearing wristbands.
CAN I COME AND GO FROM THE EVENT?
The event is designed for a fun, relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere. Feel free to explore the various activities, grab some food, enjoy the entertainment, and if you need to take a break or leave you are welcome (and encouraged) to come back later!
HOW SHOULD I GET TO CRANE COVE?
Parking around Crane Cove can be tough. We recommend public transportation, carpooling or ride shares.
Public Transportation – the T Line runs along 3rd Street; you disembark at the 17th Street & Illinois Street stop and walk a short distance to the park entrance (about half a block)
Walk from Embarcadero Station / Ferry Building is approximately 2.5 miles
By bike or scooter - The Bay Trail runs through the park
Crane Cove Drop Off Zone - If you enter the park at 18th Street, you can pull up the access road and park briefly to drop off gear / people. There is no sustained parking here, but it is ideal for rideshares or anyone wanting to drop off and then park.
North San Francisco - 4.8 miles, approx. 11 minutes via Alemany Blvd and I-280 N.
South San Francisco - 8.7 miles, approximately 12 minutes via US-101 N.
East San Francisco Bay Area - 12.9 miles, approximately 19 minutes via I-80 W.
West San Francisco - 4.3 miles, approximately 19 minutes via Golden Gate Ave.
IF I DRIVE, WHERE SHOULD I PARK?
Street parking is available, but make sure to check for meters, event parking, and time-limited zones. Hint: cross to the western side of 3rd Street for more options.
The Carpenter’s Union Lot - this is a private lot located at the corner of 3rd Street and 18th Street. DO NOT PARK HERE! You will be towed, even if just parked temporarily.
UCSF Garage - there is a new garage nearing completion at the corner of Mariposa and Illinois. We have not heard yet if public parking / hourly rates will be available.
IS CRANE COVE ADA ACCESSIBLE?
Yes, Crane Cove Park is ADA accessible
WILL THERE BE RESTROOMS?
Yes, restrooms will be available at the event. For those who purchase a VIP experience, there will be private restrooms available inside the tent.
IS THE EVENT DOG FRIENDLY?
To ensure a safe and comfortable environment for all guests, only service animals are permitted at this event
HOW CAN I MAKE A DIFFERENCE AND SUPPORT THE EVENT?
The YSF Y for Youth is looking for enthusiastic partners to join our community celebration!
Here are some ways you can get involved:
Become a Sponsor
Become a Volunteer
Donate
HOW DO I BECOME A SPONSOR?
If you are interested in sponsoring our Y For Youth Community Festival, you can visit https://www.ymcasf.org/y-for-youth-sponsorship or email Marcos Santiago, Chief Advancement Officer for the YMCA of San Francisco.
WHAT ARE THE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES?
We are currently looking for volunteers to support throughout the day.
Morning Crew (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
Afternoon Crew (2:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
Closing Crew (6:00 PM – 10:00PM)
Don't see your ideal time slot? No worries! We have a variety of exciting volunteer opportunities – we're sure to find the perfect fit for you. For more information or to register please website or contact Amy Richman at arichman@ymcasf.org with any questions.
HOW CAN I MAKE A DONATION?
Your generous donation to the YMCA Y For Youth makes a real difference in the lives of Bay Area youth. To make a 100% tax deductible donation, you can visit https://www.ymcasf.org/y-for-youth-gift
