Staff: Olivia Schiaffo

Olivia proudly hails from Northampton, Massachusetts, where she first discovered her love of working with youth. After graduating with a B.A. in Sociology/ Elementary Education coursework from Keene State College, a close mentor told her about the Bay Area’s restorative justice education practices that dismantle marginalization and empower youth. So, in 2016, west she came. Social change, relationship building, and humor are at the core of Olivia’s work.

For her first five years as a San Francisco resident, Olivia served as an afterschool program leader for Sunset Neighborhood Beacon Center. She pioneered the development of a youth-led program that enabled fifth graders to research local social issues and partner with non-profit organizations of their choosing. Her goal in youth work is to offer individualized care and resources to encourage children to see and step into their personal power. She was given the opportunity to actualize this goal when she was hired at Friends of the Children in 2021.

Olivia is inspired by the innovative, offbeat kaleidoscope that is San Francisco. She feels honored to serve her city by supporting youth and their caregivers.

In her free time, Olivia loves to experience live music and art shows, spend time outside, try new food, and explore exciting corners of San Francisco.