Our Vision

​​Our vision is a community where children are inspired to be college-bound and pursue STEM careers. They are instilled with an awareness of how important it is to have “ganas” (drive to succeed) mindset. They are enriched and more confident about their futures.

Our Mission

The Third Street Community Center provides comprehensive and enriching support to Greater Downtown San Jose youth including  college preparatory STEM education, peer role models and mentors, and family engagement in a safe and nurturing environment.

Our Philosophy

At Third Street Community Center (TSCC) we use a unique whole child, whole family, and whole community approach to engage our participants in life-long learning practices. We believe that community is crucial to helping children that are eager to learn, reach their full potential. We know parents have a great influence over their child's academic and social achievement. As such, staff engages with parents to promote participation in a variety of activities that directly contribute to their child’s academic success.

Our approach recognizes that a child’s success sometimes requires more than willingness and participation. We include teachers, staff, volunteers, and mentors to help to create a healthy, dynamic, and thriving community for our kids to shine. This inclusive approach inspires volunteers from all backgrounds, cultures, beliefs, genders, and professions to take an active role in our children’s education and well-being. Our Volunteer Program is an example of how our whole community approach empowers individuals to support our children (community).