01/21/2026
Beneficiary Spotlight: Side by Side
Your presence at the Marin Valentine's Ball is more than a celebration—it’s a commitment to young people across the Bay Area who rely on our beneficiaries for stability, healing, and hope. By attending, you are directly supporting a community of youth who are working every day to build brighter, stronger futures. We are deeply grateful.
About Side by Side
For more than 130 years, Side by Side has walked alongside young people facing significant obstacles—including mental health challenges, experiences in foster care, early trauma, and barriers to education. What began as an orphanage and farm in Marin in 1895 has grown into a trusted regional organization serving youth and young adults across Marin, Sonoma, Alameda, and Napa counties.
Side by Side Programs
Real Alternatives – Transitional housing and wraparound support for current and former foster youth and young adults, including especially vulnerable groups such as commercially sexually exploited youth, parenting youth, and LGBTQIA+ youth. Provides safe housing, life‑skills coaching, education, and employment support, and 24/7 crisis assistance
TAY Space – A community hub for transition‑age youth offering mental health support, life‑skills building, and connection.
Community Counseling – School, home, and community‑based counseling ranging from crisis intervention to long‑term support.
Independent Living Program – Life‑skills training, education support, and employment readiness for youth in foster care.
Enhanced Care Management – Intensive care coordination for youth with complex medical and mental health needs.
Our Space (LGBTQIA+ Support) – A safe, affirming community for LGBTQIA+ youth offering peer groups, mental health support, and resources.
Irene M. Hunt School – A therapeutic K–12 school providing specialized education and support for youth with significant emotional and behavioral needs.
Side by Side would like to thank all attendees for standing side by side with their youth and helping them build brighter futures.
Learn more at www.sidebysideyouth.org