The Guardsmen

The Guardsmen is a volunteer-driven nonprofit organization founded in 1947 in San Francisco, committed to helping at-risk youth break the cycle of poverty. Through its two core programs — Camperships and Scholarships — The Guardsmen provides life-changing opportunities for underserved youth across the Bay Area. The Campership Program gives thousands of kids the chance to attend outdoor summer camps, many for the first time, where they build confidence, leadership skills, and lifelong friendships. The Scholarship Program helps students access high-quality private schools that offer a more stable and supportive learning environment, opening doors to brighter futures.

 

What makes The Guardsmen unique is that it's entirely run by volunteers — professionals, parents, and community members who donate their time to organize events, raise funds, and directly support the youth they serve. The organization thrives on camaraderie and shared purpose, bringing people together around the belief that every child deserves a chance to grow, explore, and succeed, regardless of their circumstances.

 

It’s more than a nonprofit — it’s a brotherhood with a mission.