Organization Mission

Located in the historic San Francisco Mission District, MLVS is a private, non-profit, community-based education center. Its mission is to improve the socio-economic condition of limited or non-English speaking, low-and moderate-income Latinos and other minorities in San Francisco and the Bay Area through job-specific language and vocational training programs and the creation of economic development initiatives. MLVS offers a comprehensive package of job-specific vocational classroom training courses in office technology, health, and the culinary arts. Support services are an integral part of the programs, including basic technology literacy and computer training, ESL, career guidance, counseling, employment placement assistance, referral services, and job readiness training. MLVS strives to empower underserved populations and improve the community through social, economic and educational advancements.

Since its founding by a group of Mexican laborers in 1962, over 26,000 students have completed the18-to-36-week-long training programs. More than 80% of graduating students continue to be employed after one year.

Community Served

The San Francisco Mission District is ethnically and economically diverse: 50% Latino, 30% White, and 11% Asian. Latinos in the Mission District earn $13,951, compared to the City average of $34,556. The school population is 70% Latino, 21% Asian, 3% African American, 3% White, 3% other.

Due to low levels of English language proficiency, Latinos are among the most underserved and least likely to access a computer or use the Internet. MLVS is uniquely equipped to address these issues.

Challenges

Traditionally, the school had focused primarily on Spanish-speaking newcomers who needed English language training to be prepared for employment. MLVS’ new youth demographic has the additional challenges of low income and low education levels. This second generation of Hispanic residents in their mid-20’s to 30’s are a potential market of eager students for the school.

Recruitment to technology literacy and training classes is difficult, as these students are often intimidated by the new technology, and/or may not perceive the value of training and preparation, dropping the classes when a paid work opportunity arises.

The area has low rates of online access. As many as 200,000 Mission residents lack home internet access, with only an estimated 38% of households having online access, and only 12.5% with broadband. Compared to other major cities, San Francisco’s digital divide is more significant for certain demographics, including seniors and women.

Sources of funding
for technology workforce programs

Contributed
  • Corporations
  • Foundations (local government, state, federal)
  • Government local grants
  • Government State grants
  • Government Federal grants
Earned Income
Other
  • Restaurant and Catering Services
  • Rental fees

Accomplishments (Snapshots)