The RAMA Blueprints Podcast Series is the oral history of San Francisco’s Real Alternatives Program (RAP), a small non-profit organization founded in 1969 by Jim Queen. Through research, 1st hand interviews and archival footage, RAMA Blueprints tells the story of how RAP, a revolutionary youth service organization, advocated for youth empowerment through leadership development and self-determination. Generations of San Francisco community leaders were trained while at RAP and still today many work in leadership positions within community services locally or nationwide. Its legacy includes being one of the most pivotal youth service providers to influence both city, state and nation wide policies utilized by other city governments and organizations.
“They Didn’t Know We Were Seeds” – Tres Generaciones/Three Voices
“They Didn’t Know We Were Seeds” is a powerful episode from the RAMA Blueprints Live podcast, “Tres Generaciones/Three Voices.” Recorded on February 27th, 2025 at Brava Women for the Arts in San Francisco, this discussion delves into resilience and nonprofit sustainability in challenging times. Host Socorro Gamboa leads a conversation with executive directors Mario Paz (Good Samaritan), Lariza Dugan Cuadra (CARECEN SF), and Celina Lucero (Horizons Unlimited).
The episode explores the saying “They tried to bury us, but they did not know we were seeds,” symbolizing the enduring spirit of community organizations. Panelists share personal stories, leadership insights, and the crucial role of nonprofits in San Francisco. They address issues like budget cuts, political upheaval, and the importance of community-driven solutions. This episode highlights the value of nonprofit workers, their impact on the city, and the ongoing fight for equity and representation.
This episode was produced and edited by Darren J. de Leon and Socorro Gamboa.
And remember,
To listen is to Heal.
Roots of RAP (Part 3): The Last Harvest
In this episode of the RAMA Blueprints Podcast, we delve into the history and impact of the Real Alternatives Program (RAP) from the mid-1980s until its closure in 1999. The episode highlights the tenure of Mitchell Salazar, who became Executive Director at age 24 and led the development of over 20 programs aimed at youth advocacy and violence reduction. The discussions weave through personal stories from former RAP staff and community leaders, examining RAP’s dedication to providing alternatives to incarceration, educational support, and community services despite financial struggles and institutional challenges. RAP’s legacy and contributions to youth empowerment and social justice are celebrated, while underscoring the business missteps that led to its downfall.
This episode was produced and edited by Darren J. de Leon and Host Socorro Gamboa.
And remember,
To Listen is to Heal.
eXtra Bio: Gene Royale
Discover the impactful journey of Gene Royale in this eXtra Bio episode of the RAMA Blueprints Podcast Series. Gene Royale, a pivotal figure in San Francisco’s Mission District’s community activism, shares his rich experiences from co-founding the Centro de Cambio, working at the Mission Coalition Organization (MCO), and consulting for RAP. As an educator at San Francisco State University and a dedicated community organizer, Gene wore many hats, working closely with influential leaders and organizations. Tune in to hear powerful anecdotes and insights from his groundbreaking work in the Mission District and beyond. This episode is a tribute to his enduring legacy and contributions to social justice and community empowerment. Gene Royale passed away in Hanford, CA in 2024. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation. Listen now and be inspired!
