Shanti Project

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Shanti Project Shanti reduces isolation, enhances health and well-being, and improves quality of life.
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Founded in 1974 by Dr. Charlie Garfield at the UCSF Cancer Institute, Shanti was one of the first-ever volunteer organizations to work with terminally-ill individuals, and later became one of the very first community-based HIV/AIDS organizations in the world. Shanti has trained over 15,000 volunteers in the Bay Area and 600 organizations world-wide in the Shanti Model of Peer Support, and in the Bay Area alone, Shanti volunteers have provided over 3 million hours of care-giving. Each year, Shanti works to enhance the quality of life, health, and well-being of people living with life-threatening and disabling illnesses, including cancer, HIV, and Hepatitis C Virus. Last year, we served over 2,100 vulnerable individuals who face some of life’s most difficult challenges, often in isolation, without compassionate or practical support. Thank you for joining us as we create a more compassionate future for all!

At Shanti Project, we know that meaningful support goes beyond navigating challenges, it means creating spaces where peo...
10/14/2026

At Shanti Project, we know that meaningful support goes beyond navigating challenges, it means creating spaces where people feel safe, valued, understood, and connected.

This past weekend, our HIV Program team witnessed the powerful impact of bringing people together through shared experiences, time in nature, and opportunities to build meaningful relationships. As clients connected, collaborated, and enjoyed moments of joy together, we were reminded that community can grow in unexpected ways, and that even a weekend together can help foster a lasting sense of belonging.

We also recognize that building community requires patience, flexibility, and compassion. It means listening without judgment, creating an environment where everyone feels welcome, and supporting one another through both joyful and challenging moments.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝘀 𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗳𝘂𝗹:
𝗥𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 by creating opportunities for meaningful relationships and mutual support.
𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗹-𝗯𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 through shared experiences, time outdoors, and moments of joy.
𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 by ensuring everyone has a voice and an opportunity to participate.
𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝘀𝗮𝗳𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 where people can show up as their authentic selves and know they are not alone.

This is the heart of Shanti Project’s work. Through our HIV Program, we are reminded that compassionate care is not only about helping people navigate life's challenges, but also about creating opportunities for joy, friendship, dignity, and connection.

Because everyone deserves to feel seen, supported, and connected.

Learn more about our work and the communities we serve at https://www.shanti.org/ . ❤

Volunteer at Shanti! For over 50 years, Shanti volunteers have provided 1-on-1 compassionate care to individuals facing ...
08/27/2026

Volunteer at Shanti! For over 50 years, Shanti volunteers have provided 1-on-1 compassionate care to individuals facing illness and isolation. We provide peer support training and connect you with members of our San Francisco community.

Peer Support Volunteers provide our clients with emotional support and practical assistance, much like you would support a friend or family member in need.

Apply here- https://www.tfaforms.com/4661943

Learn more about Shanti’s volunteer program here- https://www.shanti.org/volunteer/

🐾 We’re thrilled to share that Shanti Project’s Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS) Program has been selected as a 2026–20...
07/31/2026

🐾 We’re thrilled to share that Shanti Project’s Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS) Program has been selected as a 2026–2027 Staying Home Grant recipient by The Grey Muzzle Organization 🎉

Thanks to Grey Muzzle’s continued investment in our PAWS Program, we can expand critical support that helps senior dogs stay healthy, safe, and at home with the people who love them — including veterinary care assistance, pet food support, and crisis stabilization services.

PAWS provides early intervention and individualized case management to help prevent senior dog surrender before a crisis occurs. By keeping companion animals with their families, we not only improve the lives of pets and their people — we also help reduce pressure on an already overburdened animal shelter system.

The impact is clear: In our 2026 client survey, 93% of PAWS clients shared that our program prevented them from having to surrender their dog or cat. ❤️

We are deeply grateful to Grey Muzzle for standing with us and supporting the belief that every senior dog deserves compassionate care and the chance to stay home.

To learn more about Shanti Project's programs and services, go to https://www.shanti.org/

𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗱𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆?Shanti Project is looking for compassionate volunteers to join our tea...
07/17/2026

𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗱𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆?

Shanti Project is looking for compassionate volunteers to join our team! Whether you want to provide peer support, assist with client services, or help out behind the scenes, your time and empathy can change a life.

𝗪𝗵𝗼 𝘄𝗲 𝗮𝗿𝗲: A community-driven organization dedicated to supporting people facing life-threatening illnesses and isolation.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂’𝗹𝗹 𝗱𝗼: Receive training, build deep connections, and offer vital emotional and practical support.
𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁: Immeasurable.

Get involved today: https://www.shanti.org/volunteer/

For 31 years, Wallace was Helen’s Pride. They built a life together filled with love, community, and countless memories....
06/25/2026

For 31 years, Wallace was Helen’s Pride. They built a life together filled with love, community, and countless memories. When Wallace passed away in 2024, the grief was overwhelming. “I became somewhat of a recluse,” Helen shared. “I felt very disconnected from Pride.”

But through loss, Helen discovered a new understanding of themself, coming out as non-binary and finding support through Shanti Project’s LGBTQ+ Aging and Abilities Support Network (LAASN).

When Helen faced some of life’s hardest moments — including saying goodbye to the cat they had shared with Wallace for 12 years — a Shanti volunteer named Danny stayed by their side. He sat with Helen at the vet's office, read aloud from *The Goodbye Book*, and reminded them that no one should have to navigate grief alone.

Later, Danny invited Helen to see a play Wallace had once taken them to years before. “That experience was profound,” Helen said. “I felt deeply connected to Wallace. I wish I got to experience it with Wallace — but I’m grateful I got to share it with Danny.”

This is what community looks like. This is what Pride looks like. Not just celebration. Not just a parade. But showing up for one another through grief, healing, identity, and connection.

As Pride Month comes to a close, the need doesn't end on June 30. Every day of the year, Shanti volunteers and staff help people facing isolation, illness, loss, and life-changing challenges find connection, support, and hope. Because everyone deserves someone beside them.

Please consider making a gift today to help ensure this work continues 365 days a year (donation link in comments).

Read Helen's full story and the other inspiring stories featured in our Faces of Pride campaign at https://www.shanti.org/our-impact/faces-of-pride/

When Mark was diagnosed with HIV during the early years of the epidemic, "I was told I wouldn't live long," he says. "So...
06/22/2026

When Mark was diagnosed with HIV during the early years of the epidemic, "I was told I wouldn't live long," he says. "So I just went with it."

After surviving a time when so many friends were lost and so much remained unknown about HIV, Mark stopped worrying about timelines. Instead, he learned to focus on what was right in front of him: one day at a time, one moment at a time.

Today, at 74, Mark continues to live with humor, resilience, and a deep appreciation for the connections that make life meaningful.

Through Shanti, Mark was matched with Peer Support Volunteer Crown. What began as a volunteer relationship grew into a genuine friendship built on laughter, companionship, and the simple act of showing up for one another.

Their story is a powerful reminder that connection matters.❤️ It helps combat isolation, strengthens community, and ensures that no one has to navigate life's challenges alone.

As part of our Faces of Pride series, we're honored to share Mark and Crown's story—and the many ways connection continues to transform lives. 🌈 Read their story, explore the full Faces of Pride series, and consider making a gift to help create more connections like this. https://www.shanti.org/our-impact/faces-of-pride/

One day at a time. One connection at a time. ❤️🏳️‍🌈

For Johana, living authentically has always required courage. After fleeing violence as a transgender woman and later be...
06/18/2026

For Johana, living authentically has always required courage. After fleeing violence as a transgender woman and later being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Johana found herself facing one of the darkest periods of her life.

Overwhelmed by depression, isolation, and suicidal thoughts, she reached out for help — a moment that led her to Shanti.

There, she met Millie, a Care Navigator who made her feel seen, supported, and safe. Through transportation assistance, home visits, support groups, and community connections, Johana began to find something she thought she had lost: hope.

“When I come to Shanti and talk with other women, I feel stronger,” Johana says. “I know I’m not alone.”

Today, Johana is not only a participant in Shanti's Spanish Health Chat group — she is also a source of strength for others navigating cancer. The compassion and dignity she received at Shanti inspired her to show up for others facing the same fears and uncertainty she once carried alone.

Now, through the Spanish Health Chat group, Johana helps create that same sense of connection she once needed most — offering encouragement, understanding, and hope to others in the midst of their own cancer journeys.

Pictured here is Johana now and then — a reflection of resilience, healing, and a life reclaimed.

Read Johana’s full story and explore the Faces of Pride series via this link: https://www.shanti.org/our-impact/faces-of-pride/

This Pride Month, your support helps ensure that people facing illness, isolation, and fear don’t have to do it alone. Consider making a gift to help us continue building connection, dignity, and care for those who need it most. ❤️🌈
https://www.shanti.org/donate/

Over the past few months, we've had the privilege of helping bring Faces of Pride to life at Shanti Project—a collection...
06/17/2026

Over the past few months, we've had the privilege of helping bring Faces of Pride to life at Shanti Project—a collection of stories from LGBTQ+ clients, volunteers, staff, and allies whose lives have been shaped by connection, community, and care. Some lived through the AIDS epidemic. Some found community after isolation. Some discovered purpose through service. All remind us what is possible when people show up for one another.

These stories are filled with perseverance, strength, vulnerability, and an unwavering commitment to living authentically and unapologetically q***r. They are a reminder that Pride is more than a celebration—it's about community, visibility, and knowing that none of us are meant to navigate life's challenges alone.

We hope you'll take a few moments to read these incredible stories: https://www.shanti.org/our-impact/faces-of-pride/ 🌈. And if these stories move you, please consider making a gift to Shanti Project. Your support helps ensure that more people facing serious illness, isolation, disability, aging, or life's most difficult challenges have someone beside them when they need it most.

Because everyone deserves connection. Everyone deserves community. And no one should have to go through life's hardest moments alone.

Happy Pride 🩷🌈

Three photos. One life. A story of courage, authenticity, and connection. A young boy in Cuba. A drag performer named Ca...
06/16/2026

Three photos. One life. A story of courage, authenticity, and connection. A young boy in Cuba. A drag performer named Catherine White. A man standing proudly beside his HIV Care Navigator, Gio.

Three photos. One life transformed by authenticity, resilience, and connection.

As a young gay man in Cuba, Nelson often had to hide who he was. But when he stepped into the persona of Catherine White, he found something powerful: freedom. Through drag, he discovered a place where he could express himself fully, embrace joy, and feel at home in his own skin.

After moving to San Francisco in 1983, Nelson finally found the community he had long dreamed of. Yet like so many others, he also experienced profound loss during the AIDS epidemic, losing friends and chosen family along the way.

For decades, Shanti Project has been part of Nelson's story. Today, that support continues through his relationship with Gio, whose care, compassion, and presence remind us that healing often begins with human connection.

"Shanti gave me that feeling again," Nelson says. "Like I belonged."

This Pride Month, we celebrate both Nelson and Catherine White — two parts of the same remarkable person whose story reminds us that everyone deserves to be seen, supported, and loved exactly as they are.

Read Nelson's full story and explore the Faces of Pride series. Then help us continue building the connections that change lives every day.

🌈 Read more: https://www.shanti.org/our-impact/faces-of-pride/
❤️ Donate: https://www.shanti.org/donate/

🌈 PRIDE IS THE POWER OF INTERGENERATIONAL CONNECTION🌈 At the height of the AIDS epidemic, Daralt opened his home to peop...
06/11/2026

🌈 PRIDE IS THE POWER OF INTERGENERATIONAL CONNECTION🌈 At the height of the AIDS epidemic, Daralt opened his home to people living with AIDS who had nowhere else to go. He raised money for Shanti, cared for friends facing unimaginable challenges, and helped many return home to be with loved ones in their final days.

Today, at 81 years old, Daralt is connected to Shanti's LGBTQ+ Aging and Abilities Support Network (LAASN), where he found an unexpected friendship with Libby, a younger LGBTQ+ volunteer.

Though separated by generations, the two quickly discovered a shared passion: music.

After a quadruple bypass surgery, Daralt found a creative outlet remixing music on his computer. What began as a hobby grew into a passion he now shares online. Libby, a former band member herself, was immediately drawn into his world of beats, samples, and remixes. What started as volunteer visits soon became weekly jam sessions filled with creativity, laughter, and genuine connection.

Their relationship is a beautiful reminder that Pride is more than a celebration of who we are—it is about community, belonging, and the bonds that connect us across generations. Through a shared love of music, Daralt and Libby found friendship, family, and joy in one another.

At Shanti, we see every day how meaningful human connection can transform lives. Daralt and Libby's story is a powerful example of what happens when people come together through shared identity, shared humanity, and an openness to learn from one another.

🎵🌈 Read their full story—and explore all of our Faces of Pride features—at: https://www.shanti.org/our-impact/faces-of-pride/

If these stories inspire you, please consider making a gift to support the life-changing connections that Shanti creates every day: https://www.shanti.org/donate/

Address

27 Maiden Lane
San Francisco, CA
94108

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+14156744700

Website

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