Pride 2026 Recap: Sin Fronteras. Sin Miedo.

Mission Action is proud to have celebrated our third annual San Francisco Pride Parade with our community. This season started with our second annual Garden Party & Art Auction, bringing together our community of supporters, partners, and artists while raising critical funds for our programs. We were especially proud to welcome Nicholas Galarza, a former resident at the Richard M. Cohen Residence, a transitional shelter program for unhoused individuals living with HIV/AIDS. He allowed us to celebrate with him as he finishes a master’s degree in social work and launches his career similarly helping people realize their potential. His heartfelt testimony brought the room to a standstill: 

“A year and a half ago, I was standing at a crossroads. I had just been discharged from rehab at Ferguson Place and was experiencing homelessness. I didn’t just need a roof; I needed a foundation. That’s when I found the Richard Cohen Residence. I lived at Cohen for ten months, and it’s no exaggeration to say the team there saved my life. At the time, I was battling the heavy aftermath of addiction – paranoia, major depression, PTSD, and crippling anxiety. But the counselors didn’t ask me to be ‘perfect’ before they helped me; they met me exactly where I was. They ensured I felt safe when the world didn’t feel safe at all. I want to give a special shout-out to Sarah, who always made me feel like a million bucks and helped me find the confidence I had lost. Because of that stability, and even the simple, vital gift of healthy meals when I wasn’t working, I was able to start taking classes at City College. 

Since leaving Cohen, I haven’t stopped working. Through therapy, mindfulness groups, and even a lot of dodgeball, I’ve stayed committed to my recovery. Today, I am a graduate student pursuing my Master of Social Work. And just this past Tuesday, I officially secured my practicum position counseling youth in crisis, the very same kind of support I once received here. My life today is about service and visibility. Whether it’s serving as King of Heart for the Grand Ducal Council or being Mr. January for the Bare Chest Calendar, my goal is to raise money for the communities that raised me: people living with HIV/AIDS, those in recovery, and our LGBTQ+ youth. I truly do not know where I would be today without the Richard Cohen Residence. You gave me the space to heal so that today, I can help others do the same. Thank you.”

Thank you, Nicholas, for reminding us how compassionate care can truly save lives. We wish him all the best on his journey and look forward to seeing him thrive in his new career. 

This year also marked the debut of our first-ever Pride Dance Team. Led by Ana and in partnership with Mujeres Unidas y Activas, the team brought this year’s theme, “Sin Fronteras. Sin Miedo,” to life through dance and celebration. Their hard work earned a ribbon from the judges for “Absolutely Joyful Marching Contingent.” Thank you to everyone who dedicated their time to rehearsals and helped make this new tradition such a success.

One of the most meaningful parts of this year’s parade was having clients from our Dolores Shelter Program participate. They rode on our float alongside staff, volunteers, and community members. For many, it was their first Pride parade, and it was an opportunity to celebrate in a space where they felt safe, welcomed, and proud.

To everyone who donated, volunteered, partnered with us, or marched with us: thank you. Everything we do is possible because of your support. We appreciate everyone who helped make this Pride season a success.

The Mission Action Pride contingent and festive outfits.

Nicholas with Cohen Staff Sarah Goldberg and Gwendolyn Hoskins

Our ribbon from the judges.