1921
Founded in North Beach in the spirit of St. John Bosco.
About
About Salesian
A North Beach tradition serving San Francisco youth since 1921.
The Salesian Boys’ & Girls’ Club gives young people a safe, welcoming place to learn, play, grow, build friendships, and become part of a lasting Club community.
100+
Our Story
Years of Salesian tradition. Thousands of young lives reached. One mission.
Salesian continues to be a place where youth are known, supported, and encouraged through programs, relationships, and community experiences that last far beyond a single school year.
1921
North Beach
A longstanding neighborhood institution serving San Francisco youth.
1994
The Boys’ Club and Girls’ Club merged into today’s Salesian Boys’ & Girls’ Club.
Citywide
The Club serves youth from San Francisco and the greater Bay Area.
Why We Are Called Salesian
Rooted in Don Bosco’s spirit of patience, care, and opportunity.
The name Salesian comes from the story of St. John Bosco, also known as Don Bosco. As a young Italian priest, Don Bosco saw the impact that social and economic change was having on youth and advocated understanding, patience, and care when working with young people.
Fr. Oreste Trincheri brought that spirit to North Beach in 1921, founding the Salesian Boys’ Club as a positive outlet for neighborhood youth. In 1994, the Salesian Boys’ Club merged with the Salesian Girls’ Club, forming the Salesian Boys’ & Girls’ Club known today.
Centennial Story
Watch our Centennial Celebration video.
Learn more about the history of The Club and the people, families, alumni, and supporters who have helped carry the mission forward.
Guiding Principles
The standards that shape daily Club life.
Safe Environment
We strive to maintain a safe and secure environment for members and staff.
Integrity
We are honest and forthright in our dealings with Club members, staff, supporters, and the community.
Excellence
We strive to provide high-quality service and professionalism in our interactions.
Youth Centered
We focus on what is best for members and use Don Bosco’s preventive system and principle of loving kindness.
Respect
We treat members, families, staff, and supporters with respect.
Compassion
We respond to members and staff with care and compassion.
Consistency
We say what we will do, then we do what we say.
Annual Report
Take a deeper look inside The Club.
Read the 2024–2025 Annual Report for a deeper look at programs, community impact, and the work made possible by supporters.
Get Involved
Ready to connect with The Club?
Contact the team, explore membership, or support the programs that keep Salesian strong for San Francisco youth.
