Young Professionals Council (YPC) Member Spotlight: Harcourt Allen

February 21, 2025

When Harcourt moved to San Francisco in August 2020, fresh out of Northwestern University with degrees in engineering and psychology, she wasn’t sure how long she would stay. She found the city’s homelessness crisis deeply disheartening and considered moving back closer to her hometown of Louisville, Kentucky. But instead of leaving, she chose to find a way to make a difference. And in doing so, she found a purpose that reshaped her experience of San Francisco.

Harcourt’s first experience with St. Anthony’s was volunteering in the Dining Room, serving breakfast to guests. She immediately felt the impact of the work—seeing guests face-to-face, sharing a moment of connection, and realizing she was part of something meaningful.

What started as a way to combat feelings of helplessness quickly became a central part of her routine. Volunteering in the early morning before work became a mindful, intentional start to her day. “It’s like waking up early to meditate or work out—but instead, you’re doing something for the community,” she explains.

Harcourt grew up in a family that deeply valued generosity and selflessness. Her grandmother, one of the most giving people she’s known, set the standard for what it meant to serve others—not just through financial giving but through time, patience, and presence. Her mother, an art therapist working with single mothers and children, also modeled this commitment to showing up for people.

These values shaped Harcourt’s view of the world, but volunteering at St. Anthony’s challenged her to apply them in new ways. Early on, she found herself struggling when guests didn’t react with gratitude or voiced frustration. Over time, she realized that everyone carries their own burdens and that patience is key. “I started to see that change takes time. Just like we meet guests where they are, I have to meet myself where I’m at, too.”

Beyond the guests, Harcourt has built meaningful relationships with the Dining Room staff and fellow volunteers. Harcourt’s commitment to service deepened when she joined the St. Anthony’s Young Professionals Council (YPC). YPC is a passionate, action-oriented group of young professionals dedicated to organizing volunteer efforts, fundraising initiatives, and community events to support our mission. Through YPC, she gained insight into fundraising and seeing more of St. Anthony’s which has inspired her to deepen her work in the future and hopefully join a nonprofit board.

Her infectious enthusiasm and dedication were recognized when she received the Spirit of Fun Award at the annual Volunteer Appreciation Event in 2024. Harcourt embodies the heart of what makes St. Anthony’s special—the joy, connection, and purpose found in service.

For Harcourt, what started as an effort to reconnect with the city has turned into a lifelong commitment to service. And for St. Anthony’s, volunteers like her are at the heart of everything we do. Her advice to others? “Just show up. Sign up for a shift. Even once a quarter can have an impact.”

Volunteering isn’t just about giving—it’s about receiving the gift of community, perspective, and human connection. A simple act, like serving a meal or sharing a smile, can create lasting change in someone’s day—and in your own life. Be a part of something meaningful. Sign up to volunteer today.