Oscar Calderon Leon

Program Manager, Project WHAT!

Why do you do what you do?

I have always seen the importance of youth programs, from participating as a young person to now being an adult ally to youth spaces. Being able to create and provide youth spaces has shown the importance of believing in youth and really seeing them as the next leaders of our communities.

As Program Manager of Project WHAT!, I am responsible for advocating for children of incarcerated parents and youth as whole, while creating the space for youth to lead the space and share their expertise. I work directly with youth who are children of incarcerated parents (CIP) all throughout the Bay Area. Before coming to CW, I was working in multiple nonprofits that focused on youth empowerment, engagement and advocacy. I am a first generation grad and have a BA in Community Studies from UC Santa Cruz, and a MA in Urban and Public Affairs from University of San Francisco.

When I’m not at CW, you might find me watching movies or shows on superheroes and anime, finding ways to learn something new every day and growing to be the best version of myself.

Contact Info

Phone: 510.268.8116
Email : info@communityworkswest.org