Staff: Jessica Leon

If you are ever in the position to help someone, do it. Filled with passion, spirit, and dedication, Jessica came to San Francisco looking to make an impact with that exact philosophy in mind and heart. The San Diego native is no stranger to working hands on with youth of all ages. Since her youth Jessica has been passionate about her involvement in athletics, the arts, and learning. Upon her arrival to San Francisco in 2010, Jessica pursued those interests by being a Field Hockey and Lacrosse coach while working in daycare centers and transitional kindergarten classrooms. Born into a family of educators, Jessica naturally engrossed herself supporting youth within the realm of education. She gained experience both inside and outside the classroom as an after-school coordinator in Oakland and a teacher’s aide for students with special needs in the Bayview Hunters-Point Community. It is while working as an Elementary Advisor within San Francisco Unified School District, Jessica had her first encounter with Friends of the Children, as the mentors were often available for additional support. She was blown away not only by their impact, but how the children responded to them. Jessica realized she had found an organization whose beliefs and mission aligned with her own. In the Fall of 2019, she joined the team- San Francisco's chapter of Friends of the Children. Jessica is literate in both English and Spanish, has an associates degree in humanities, and is currently studying anthropology at San Francisco State University. She is an avid member of her community both living and working in the Bayview. Jessica thrives in an intellectually stimulating environment and constantly picks up hobbies that help her expand her views and beliefs.