JVS staff hold a congratulations banner at the 2025 HealthCare Academy graduation.

On June 17, 2025, JVS and community partners celebrated the 15th annual HealthCare Academy graduation in San Francisco. JVS is the nonprofit administrator of the program, a project of the San Francisco Office of Economic and Workforce Development (OEWD), and offers no-cost training programs alongside seven additional community-based organizations. HealthCare Academy participants receive career training in one of over 15 different career pathways that lead to stable, long-term employment and economic mobility.

Attendees at the graduation included staff from across the HealthCare Academy partner agencies, program participants, family members, and community supporters. Each partner agency nominated one outstanding graduate to receive an award based on their hard work in the program, commitment to personal and professional development, and ability to overcome obstacles along the way.

HealthCare Academy awardees celebrate at the 2025 graduation.

Matthew Gee was born and raised in San Francisco, California. Growing up in such a diverse and dynamic city shaped his values and instilled in him a strong desire to give back to his community. After graduating from college, he chose a path of public service, enrolling in City EMT and beginning his journey joining the San Francisco Fire Department.

With family members already in the fire service, Matthew developed a deep respect for the profession early in life. While his education provided a solid foundation, it was witnessing the real-life impact of EMTs and firefighters that truly inspired him. Seeing how these professionals bring calm and care during emergencies motivated him to follow in their footsteps.

Though early in his career, completing City EMT has only deepened his dedication to serving the people of San Francisco. For Matthew, this work is more than just a job—it is a way to help build a safer, stronger community. Each shift presents new lessons and opportunities for personal and professional growth. He is proud to be part of a team that makes a real difference in people’s lives.

While his journey is just beginning, Matthew remains committed to joining the San Francisco Fire Department. He looks forward to the challenges ahead and is determined to make a lasting, positive impact on the city he loves.

Patty has admirably overcome her nerves when speaking during class discussions and in practicum sessions. She has never declined an invitation to speak or participate, regardless of how nervous she may have felt. Patty has shown the same level of determination during lectures, consistently taking thorough notes and maintaining focus in a way that motivates her classmates to take their work seriously.

Her strong work ethic, empathy, and resilience in overcoming challenges throughout the course will make her an invaluable member of Homebridge’s Home Care Provider (HCP) team, where she will be supporting some of San Francisco’s most vulnerable seniors. Patty is deeply respected and beloved by her classmates and will undoubtedly earn the same admiration from her future clients.

Gione Edwards is a proud San Francisco native, born and raised in the Western Addition neighborhood. Growing up in public housing presented its share of challenges, but it also instilled in him a deep understanding of resilience and the importance of striving for a better life—not only for himself, but also for his family.

Gione’s ultimate goal is to give back to the community that shaped him. He is particularly passionate about improving financial literacy and launching a free breakfast program to ensure that every child begins their day with a full stomach and a strong foundation for learning and growth.

Michael’s journey to becoming a newly hired Community Health Worker (CHW) has been marked by many ups, downs, and unexpected turns. He never imagined he would reach this point or accomplish so much. With the support of the CHW program and his personal support network, Michael has overcome significant obstacles—from closing his CPS case to graduating from RAMS to now securing a position at the Homeless Prenatal Program (HPP).

He began this path as a client who felt lost, lacked self-confidence, and was adjusting to life as a new father. Today, he serves as a peer parent mentor, helping other fathers each week. Michael takes great pride in the work he does and in how far he has come. His transformation reflects his resilience, determination, and commitment to uplifting others in his community.

Cenitinal brings over 16 years of experience in healthcare as a dedicated Medical Assistant. Her career has also extended into the transportation industry, where she served the public—particularly individuals with disabilities—by ensuring they had access to reliable transportation for essential medical appointments.

In 2024, Cenitinal returned to the medical field through her participation in the EXCEL workforce development program, a collaboration between JVS, UCSF, and SFHSA. During her internship as a Practice Coordinator at UCSF in the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Department, she truly excelled. Cenitinal continues to make a meaningful impact on the patient experience at UCSF through her professionalism and compassion. Her commitment to service and excellence is a reflection of her pride in the work she does.

Kimberly Arce, a proud Bay Area native, exemplifies dedication, perseverance, and purpose. While completing her externship and preparing to welcome her baby, Kimberly remains focused on achieving her educational and professional goals with unwavering determination. She is actively contributing to the community by providing healthcare resources, administering vaccines, and supporting public health initiatives.

Her steadfast commitment to making a difference—even while navigating personal challenges—reflects her resilience and passion for service. Kimberly truly embodies the spirit of excellence and compassion in all that she does.

In February 2024, Paul made the courageous decision to get sober after years of struggling with addiction. He found hope and support through PRC, where he began his recovery and, for the first time, felt accepted and valued. With the help of his new support system at PRC, Paul not only overcame addiction but also discovered a sense of community and purpose.

As he progressed in his recovery, Paul joined PRC’s Workforce Development team, helping others take steps toward employment and self-sufficiency. Wanting to deepen his impact, he enrolled in Lift UP SF’s Peer Support Specialist training and returned to school to further his education. In December 2024, his journey came full circle when he became a counselor at Ferguson Place—the very rehab facility where his recovery began.

Now, Paul works to support individuals facing the same struggles he once endured, offering them hope and serving as living proof that recovery is possible. Grateful to those who stood by him throughout his journey, he is proud to give back to the community that helped save his life.

Yanshu is a proud graduate of the CNA training program. Motivated by a desire to transition into a healthcare career from a declining industry, she approached the program with determination and focus. Throughout the training, Yanshu set a strong example for her peers through her commitment and perseverance.

After successfully completing the program, she passed the state certification exam and became a licensed Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Yanshu is now working at a post-acute care center, where she is proud to serve and support her community. Her dedication to personal growth and her passion for helping others continue to inspire those around her.

Congratulations to all of the awardees and 2025 HealthCare Academy graduates for their hard work and dedication to career development. Learn more and apply for no-cost training through HealthCare Academy programs on the San Francisco OEWD website.