Third Street Community Center

Third Street Community Center is a place where people of all ages and backgrounds are actively engaged in enriching themselves and their community through education, arts, technology and service. Third Street Community Center ( Third Street ) believes in a whole child, whole family and whole community approach to engage our community in life long learning opportunities. Third Street believes that our community is crucial to helping children who are eager to learn reach their full potential. Given that parents can have a great influence over their child's academic and social success, Third Street works with parents by encouraging them to participate in a variety of classes so they can fully contribute to their child's success. Our concept of whole child, whole family and whole community recognizes that a child's success does not depend solely on the child ability to learn and parent engagement. Adult role models like teachers, staff, volunteers and mentors can create a healthy and robust community where children can thrive. This inclusive approach inspires volunteers from our all backgrounds, cultures, beliefs, and professions to take an active role in children's education and well being. Our Volunteer Program is just one of our many strengths and a prime example of how our whole community approach empowers individuals to give back to our community. Third Street Community Center ( Third Street ) was founded in 1997 by community leaders in San Jose. Spearheaded by Reverend Lindi Ramsden from the First Unitarian Church of San Jose, her passion for social justice brought together a multi-disciplinary group of key stakeholders who shared her passion. This group included community members, city and public health representatives, educators, business leaders and more. In 1998, Third Street was incorporated as a nondenominational nonprofit organization. The first year of operation was accomplished with the support of volunteers from the First Unitarian Church of San Jose ; many of whom provided their time, talent and service to help build our programs. Since this humble origin, Third Street has served over 2, 150 economically and socially disadvantaged children and individuals.