Organization Background
The
Yerba Buena Gardens Conservancy is a civic nonprofit organization established in July 2019 to operate and manage Yerba Buena Gardens on behalf of the
City and County of San Francisco.
The Gardens
Yerba Buena Gardens is a civic treasure in downtown San Francisco with more than five million annual visitors. As the centerpiece of the City’s cultural, convention and visitor district and part of the rapidly growing Yerba Buena neighborhood, Yerba Buena Gardens is an urban oasis of cultural organizations, landscaped lawns, extensive public art, dining, cafés and award-winning architecture built above and around Moscone Center.
With five acres of landscaped space, the Gardens hosts the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival with more than 100 free performances annually and is home to the
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Waterfall, Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, the Children’s Creativity Museum, an ice-skating rink, bowling center, child care center, historic carousel, as well as a
children’s area with a learning garden, Tot Lot, and large play circle. It is a place rooted in inclusivity where everyone can relax, celebrate, and be inspired.
Structure + Governance
The Conservancy is governed by a Board of Directors representing a cross-section of community members, civic leaders, and City appointees. The City provides oversight as the landlord, auditor, and technical advisor. A small administrative staff contracts for maintenance, operations, programming, and security services.
Organizational Culture
A small, efficient team presently staffs the YBGC. They work collaboratively with contractors, consultants, and the City to accomplish the organization's work. The staff is led by a very active and highly engaged board of directors. Being curious, multidisciplinary, and team-oriented are keys to success in the organization. The company thrives through our high-performing, participatory, and fun-loving work environment.
