I currently am working at Code Tenderloin as a Technical Program Coordinator, but I started at Code Tenderloin as a client. I came on in November 2019 as a client to their Job Readiness Program, then worked my way through their Code Ramp programs. I am now currently enrolled in a bootcamp that is partnered with Code Tenderloin (Code the Dream). Code Tenderloin is amazing in that they remove barriers to work, for everyone. Code Tenderloin operates with so much empathy and dignity and ensures that they keep the spaces inclusive. I've sat beside people who are housing-insecure, justice-affected, unemployed, wanting to take affordable coding courses, or simply figuring things out, and CT helps everyone by helping to bridge their access gaps. For example, they loan out laptops so that people have a workstation to practice code and attend class. They give clipper cards for public transportation to people to help them make it to class (for those preferring to be here in person). That's the other thing- even during the pandemic, they were providing space for people to learn or get information about services. That level of empathy and care really attracted me to stay with the organization and join on the administrative side. Pros: lots of support. No cost for education. You can become a programmer through Code Tenderloin for free. Lots of resources for employment, including apprenticeships. We've been around for several years now, so we've got a growing network of students and alumni that has expanded well beyond the Bay Area. Also, let me further toot the org's horn and let you know that we've been named 2020 Non-Profit of the Year by CA Assemblymember Chiu, so it's not just me that thinks that Code Tenderloin is up to amazing things. The course offerings through Code Tenderloin continues to grow as the organization expands. We started with just Javascript training, but now we're offering so much more. Cons: maybe I'm biased because I now work for them, but I can't think of anything. I don't think this would be a good environment for a student that lacks empathy or is close-minded. We serve a very diverse population, and we're here to help anyone and everyone. | 