Sean Harris

I’ve been involved with the San Francisco AIDS Foundation one way or another since 2006 — starting with AIDS/Lifecycle as a medic for five years and then a rider, before joining Dining Out for Life as an ambassador and planning committee member. Their mission is to promote health, wellness, and social justice for communities most impacted by HIV, through sexual health and substance use services, advocacy, and community partnerships. What keeps me involved with the San Francisco AIDS Foundation is the people, the incredible community of volunteers, foundation staff, friends, and family, who all show up to support the ongoing efforts of SFAF to help those living with and at risk for HIV in our city.

What keeps me involved with the San Francisco AIDS Foundation is the people, the incredible community of volunteers, foundation staff, friends, and family, who all show up to support the ongoing efforts of SFAF to help those living with and at risk for HIV in our city.

I was introduced to Larkin Street Youth Services during my time at a previous employer and knew immediately that this is an organization I wanted to work with and help support. On any given night in San Francisco, there are more than 1,100 young people without a safe place to sleep – almost half of which identify as LGBTQ+. But thanks to the services of Larkin Street Youth Services, more than 78,000 young adults in SF have been helped with healthcare, housing, employment and education services. 9 out of 10 young people who complete their long-term housing programs are able to exit to stable housing — and by helping to provide stable housing for these youth, the organization is giving them a chance to develop the knowledge and skills that will allow them to thrive in adulthood.

Going ALL the way back to my days as a Cub Scout, I remember volunteering to help gather canned goods and support Food Banks. Part of our motto was to help others, and while the organizations and groups helped might have changed through the years, the idea of helping to support my community has always stuck with me. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, many of us have faced challenges of acceptance – and out of that, comes the idea of chosen family. A group of individuals who love and support you no matter what. A support system that gives you the confidence to show up every day as your authentic self. It’s this belief that has led me to CZI and working in Education to ensure that every student feels seen, heard, and understood. It’s also pushed me to search out ways to give back to my community with organizations like the San Francisco AIDS Foundation and Larkin Street Youth Services.