Exploring Careers in Community: Mission Housing Launches Affordable Housing Youth Tours as Part of “The San Francisco Revival”

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. (Oct. 30, 2025) — Mission Housing Development Corporation, in partnership with Mission Graduates, has launched a new series of Affordable Housing Youth Tours as part of The San Francisco Revival — a citywide initiative celebrating the resilience, creativity, and renewal of San Francisco.

The first tours kicked off on October 15 and October 22, 2025, with students from John O’Connell High School’s Public Service and Construction Pathways, offering a hands-on introduction to the world of community development and affordable housing. The next tour is scheduled for December 3, 2025.

During the tours, students visit several Mission District developments — including Valencia Gardens, Alcantara Court, and Avanza 490 — to see firsthand how affordable housing is built, managed, and sustained. Each visit explores not only the architecture and construction, but also the services, partnerships, and people that make these communities thrive.

“These tours are about more than just buildings; they’re about showing young people that they belong in this work,” said Mission Housing Community Engagement Director Chirag Bhakta. “We want the next generation of affordable housing leaders to reflect the same communities we serve.”

“Mission Housing has been a partner in the work of Mission Graduates for almost 30 years, and we are excited to take our collaboration to the next level. Misson Housing’s access to careers in affordable housing and construction provides our youth exposure and opportunities in both of these job sectors, which ensures a career pathway that will support them and their family for generations,” said Mission Graduates Chief Executive Officer Eddie Kaufman, LCSW.

The Affordable Housing Youth Tours embody The San Francisco Revival’s Youth Development pillar, connecting students to meaningful career pathways while reaffirming the city’s enduring strength and potential. The tours demonstrate that San Francisco’s future lies in the hands of engaged, curious young people ready to shape their neighborhoods and their city.

About Mission Housing Development Corporation

Since 1971, Mission Housing Development Corporation has been a leading provider of affordable housing in San Francisco, fostering inclusive, thriving communities across the city.

For more information, visit www.MissionHousing.org