INTRODUCTION
The FACES for the Future Program at John O’ Connell High School (JOCHS) is located in the Mission District neighborhood of San Francisco, CA. The program started in 2015 in partnership with the San Francisco Department of Public Health and the San Francisco Unified School District. The FACES program provides a 2-year healthcare internship and leadership development program for JOCHS students in the 11th and 12th grades. The program supports entry into healthcare professions, including public and behavioral health careers, through internships, workshops, academic support, college preparation and wellness support.
PROGRAM
Health Careers Exploration
- Clinical and non-clinical rotations with San Francisco Department of Public Health agencies, including Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center and Laguna Honda Hospital.
- Exposure to one-on-one relationships with Internship Supervisors who provide support, guidance and hands-on training.
- Interactive Workshops and Field Trips designed to further immerse students in the health and public health professions.
- Interaction with health professionals who regularly present during classroom workshops to enhance healthcare preparatory curricula.
Academic Support and Enrichment
- Health careers preparatory curriculum at John O’ Connell High School, covering topics such as HIPPA, ethics and confidentiality, safety, and professionalism.
- Individualized academic and career support to high school students via one-on-one advising and tutoring.
- College pathways support in helping search for college, apply and receive financial aid.
Wellness Support and Psycho-Social Intervention
- A Psychosocial Program focusing on counseling and education.
- Ongoing case management, psycho-social referrals to appropriate services when appropriate.
- Individualized Life Coaching and academic plans.
- Strong commitment to engaging parents and families in all aspects of the FACES program via parent meetings and phone conferences.
Youth Leadership Development
- Regular personal growth workshops focused on experiential learning about self-advocacy, assertive communication, healthy and unhealthy relationships, stress management, and other relevant topics.
- Team building activities and support experiences.
- Working with and supporting youth to seek out leadership opportunities in FACES as well as their schools and neighborhoods.
LEADERSHIP
Latasha Taylor, Program Coordinator
Latasha Taylor is the Program Coordinator for FACES for the Future at John O’Connell High School in San Francisco.
Latasha grew up in Oakland, California and graduated from the Health Academy at Oakland Technical High School. She then attended California State University, East Bay where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences. Being a first-generation college student invoked Latasha’s passion for mentorship and youth development. She has worked in a variety of roles with youth organizations and non-profits across the East Bay, providing students with access to internships, mentorship, and personal development opportunities. Latasha believes that a healthy community starts with inspiring and encouraging youth to discover and cultivate their unique personal gifts. Outside of work Latasha enjoys live music, being in nature, and spending time with family and friends.
CONTACT
Latasha Taylor
FACES for the Future San Francisco
555 12th Street, 10th Floor
Oakland, CA 94607
Phone: (510) 593-0845
Email: Latasha.Taylor@phi.org