Phelisha Saffold

Born and raised in East Oakland, Phelisha Saffold is a former Castlemont High School student who now dedicates her life to supporting the next generation. Her journey to Youth ALIVE! was shaped by profound personal loss—first, the murder of her spouse when she was a young mother, and decades later, the devastating loss of her son in 2021. Grief left her lost, but when a friend connected her with Youth ALIVE!, who helped with her son’s funeral, she found a new purpose.

Phelisha has always been a caretaker—the neighborhood mom and auntie that kids turn to for guidance. Her work at a homeless shelter in San Francisco deepened her compassion and reinforced her belief that everyone has a story and deserves dignity. When the opportunity arose to become a school-based Violence Interrupter at Castlemont, she knew it was where she belonged.

Now, she is part of the village ensuring Oakland’s youth stay on track, feel supported, and find alternatives to violence. She credits Youth ALIVE! with saving her life and is committed to doing the same for others.

Outside of work, Phelisha loves spending time with her children and seven grandchildren, embracing the love that continues to inspire her every day.