The Youth Theater Project Turns 30 in Spring 2026!
Spotlight On Youth Fund
Spotlight On Youth Fund
In honor of the upcoming 30th anniversary of our Youth Theater Project (YTP), we are launching a new initiative: the Spotlight on Youth Fund – a dedicated fund to sustain and expand our youth programming for the next generation.
Three decades ago when we started YTP, our aim was to use theater creation as a way to focus on the real concerns of San Francisco youth, especially those considered to be “at risk.” Slowly their stories spilled out, sharing in confidence their tales of violence, familial incarceration, abuse, depression, racism, homophobia and of course, the inequity of poverty.
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Together, they channeled their anger into their playwriting and together they took their bows with pride because they got to speak their truth. During the process, barriers came down and the joy of collaboration gave them unity, self-confidence and most importantly, hope.
Today, two generations later, the threats to our youth have become existential. A runaway climate crisis and mass shootings top a list that includes deportations, transphobia, and more.
Our commitment to our youth is stronger than ever as we have added additional programming throughout the years such as a Fall YTP session, ENOUGH! Plays to End Gun Violence, and the Young California Writers Project (YCWP) led by resident playwright, Michael Gene Sullivan. The results are gratifying as former students reach out, sometimes years later, to inform us how our programs changed their lives.
However, with public education cuts and shrinking grants, the security of these programs is in danger. Our goal with the Spotlight on Youth Fund is to create a resource that can ensure that we continue to serve our local youth. Our hope is that the fund will be fueled by regular pledged donors and other youth supporters.
In a time of relinquished support, we must all rally to ensure that this and future generations are supported so they can resist the shackles of cynicism. Then they can become citizens working for a better and more equitable future fueled by optimism and hope.
With Gratitude and In Solidarity for Youth,
San Francisco Mime Troupe
Become Part Of The “Spotlight Founding Circle”
Become Part Of The “Spotlight Founding Circle”
Donate now or until the end of 2026 as part of the Youth Theater Project’s 30th Anniversary and receive permanent donor recognition on our website!
We accept Donations in three ways - one time donations, monthly recurring donations, or annual recurring donations. Committing to an ongoing donation either annual or monthly helps us plan for the future and is a great way to ensure we’ll be here for the long run. These long term investments in our future come with special recognition and benefits based on the amount you donate over the next year and into the future!
When you give, you join our "Spotlight Founding Circle."
A donation of just $20 a month would be $240 in one year!
You would also be recognized as one of our "Future Sparks."
You can make your tax deductible donation here online or by mailing us a check!
Please make checks payable to "San Francisco Mime Troupe"
And on in the memo section of your check write "Spotlight on Youth Fund"
Send checks to us at: SFMT 855 Treat Ave SF, CA 94110
What Your Donations Fund
Your donations support the SFMT's various programs that are free for high school students. These programs allows young people to develop their skills as playwrights and performers through foundation-level workshops, advanced staged readings, and the full production of original plays. Participants build their abilities over several years through collaborative and individual script development.
Specifically, your contributions help cover a range of essential expenses, including:
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Stipends that compensate youth participants for their time and creative work
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Access to workshops, training, and mentorship programs led by experienced teaching artists
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Workshop and rehearsal space, supplies, and materials for youth participants
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Healthy, nutritious meals prepared by a dedicated chef to keep students energized during long rehearsals
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Safe, welcoming spaces where youth feel supported, valued, and encouraged to take creative risks
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Production costs including props, costumes, lighting, sound, and stage materials that bring youth performances to life
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Payroll taxes, workers’ compensation, and insurance to ensure safe, professional program delivery
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Salaries and W2 earnings for program staff who design, lead, and support youth programs (e.g., Program Director, Lead Teaching Artists, assistants, tech crew, etc.)
Cornerstone Donors
$10,000+
The Cornerstones provide the foundation upon which the "Spotlight on Youth Fund" is built. Your gift ensures the long-term stability of our youth programs, creating a secure space where young artists can find their voice and speak their truth for years to come.
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Our Thanks to You:
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Exclusive invitation to meet our youth participants and artistic staff.
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VIP seating at youth programming events, and shows.
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Featured recognition as a "Cornerstone Donor" in all programs and on the website!
"Your Name Here!"
"Your Name Here!"
Legacy Builders
$5,000 - $9,999
You build a lasting legacy that guarantees youth voices remain a central, powerful part of SFMT's work, fueling their journey of collaboration, self-confidence, and hope for the next 30 years.
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Our Thanks to You:
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VIP seating at youth programming events, and shows.
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Featured recognition as a "Legacy Builder" in all programs and on the website!
Empowerment Circle
$1,000 - $4,999
or $85/month
Your generous support directly empowers young people to channel their experiences into art, helping them grow into the next generation of inspiring citizen-artists and community leaders.
Our Thanks to You:
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VIP seating at youth programming events, and shows.
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Featured recognition as part of the "Empowerment Circle" in all programs and on the website!
"Your Name Here!"
Bonnie Friedmann,
Kath Tsakalakis
Voice Sustainers
$500 - $999
or $45/month
Your vital gift sustains the creative energy of our programs, providing the consistent support needed to keep youth voices strong, clear, and impactful on stage and in their community.
Our Thanks to You:
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A permanent RSVP at youth programming events and shows.
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Featured recognition as part of the "Voice Sustainers" on the website!
Future Sparks
$240 - $499
or $20/month
Your essential contribution ignites the creative spark in a new generation, providing the crucial fuel for their journey as the artists and activists of a more equitable future.
Our Thanks to You:
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Featured recognition as part of the "Future Sparks" on the website!