In 2000, Dave Eggers, one of my favorite authors, wanted to open a tutoring center for under-served kids in the Mission District. The only hang-up was that the space they had acquired was zoned commercial. So they decided to be creative and opened a whimsical pirate supply store in the front of the space to accommodate the city's regulations. Tutoring would take place in the back of the store.
The idea eventually took off and spread nationally with whimsical shops opening all over the world with tutoring centers in the back. Many of these shops earn a profit and pay for the rent of the center. The original Pirate Supply Store at 826 Valencia is always bustling with students, teachers and volunteers. These students get writing and reading help they desperately need. They often have their works published by McSweeney's, the non-profit publishing group founded by Eggers.
It was indeed inspiring to visit the actual place after following their story for so many years. The shop is legit. Actual supplies a buccaneer would find helpful. All profits go to supporting and operating the center. I didn't buy a peg leg or eye patch, going for a t-shirt instead. 826 Valencia is a great example of using creativity to meet a crucial need in society.
By the way, an extra perk of visiting the Mission District is that just a few shops down from 826 Valencia is Dandelion Chocolate which a very nice place to stop in for any reason.
