“Goodbyes are not forever. Goodbyes are not the end. They simply mean we’ll miss you until we meet again.”

Saint Francis Center in Redwood City, Holy Family School
May 22, 2025

It’s with full hearts and immense pride that we prepare to celebrate the incredible accomplishments of our 8th-grade students at the Siena Youth Center. On June 6, we invite you to join us for a heartfelt graduation ceremony and a fun, Hollywood-themed after-party honoring this amazing group of young scholars—and the devoted mothers who have walked every step of this journey with them.

Over the past eight years, these students have grown into confident, compassionate, and capable young leaders. Their dedication to academics and community has been nothing short of inspiring. Many have been accepted into some of the Bay Area’s most prestigious high schools, including:

  • Bellarmine College Preparatory
  • Eastside College Preparatory School
  • Sacred Heart Prep
  • St. Francis High School
  • Notre Dame High School
  • Junípero Serra High School

Several of our graduates have even received full scholarships, a testament to their resilience, character, and hard work.

But this celebration isn’t just about the students—it’s also about the incredible mothers who stood beside them. These women have shown extraordinary determination: improving their English, earning GEDs and certificates, enrolling in college classes, and in many cases, becoming U.S. citizens. Their presence at The Center has enriched our community in countless ways, and they will be deeply missed.

As our graduates move forward into high school and beyond, they leave behind a legacy of excellence and hope. While their departure will leave a space that can never be filled, we know their journeys are just beginning—and we’ll be cheering them on every step of the way.

Want to be part of the celebration?

We’re looking for volunteers to help make this event unforgettable.

Event Date: June 6 (Graduation + After-Party)

  • Cleanup Help Needed: June 7
  • To sign up, please contact Natalia Gutierrez at volunteer@stfrancisrwc.org or give us a call at (650) 365-7829

Let’s come together to honor this remarkable milestone—because every goodbye is just a promise that we’ll meet again.