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The San Diego Woman's Club Powers Successful Launch

Mon, 04 May 2026 16:34:47 GMT

A New Joyful Journey for One El Nido Family Thanks to the San Diego Woman's Club

The San Diego Woman's Club ( SDWC President Judy Mantle on left and Member Diane Hazard on right ), sponsors of Unit #3 at El Nido, have long been faithful supporters of the families, the staff, and the program at El Nido. The compassionate contributions of this woman's club has consistently made a positive difference in the lives of domestic violence survivors and they have been recognized by the California Federation of Women's Clubs for their contributions and work on behalf of DV victims.

This month, those contributions looked like a fresh start for one El Nido family. Yasel recently graduated from El Nido and was planning on relocating with her children. While the journey was ultimately joyful, the logistics were beginning to pose a challenge. Thankfully, the women of the SDWC stepped up and made a way for the family by ensuring Yasel had transportation to her new home. This is just one more story of generosity in a decades-long list of support by the SDWC.

Thank you, SDWC, for empowering the El Nido program and for getting Yasel and her family on the road to their new beginning.

Rotational Shelter Creates Connections

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:34:05 GMT

Relationships Lead to Results

The Rotational Shelter Program has concluded its 40th season. As the wrap-up on the season is underway, survey feedback and volunteer stories are rolling in.

In the North County Branch, a shelter guest responded to the question, "Do you have any suggestions that could help improve the program?" by writing, " It was already more than I could ask for but hopefully they have help like this in every city where it's needed. "

A defining characteristic of the Rotational Shelter Program is the relationship component. Often, shelter guests will share with shelter volunteers. The volunteers hosting the program get to know the families that are staying in their facilities. These relationships can lead to fresh perspectives and heart-warming connections.

In the San Diego Inland Branch, Scott and Sam, volunteers from College Avenue Church (pictured above) shared the following story highlighting the kinds of connections that are made. Notes: the names have been changed to preserve anonymity.

During the two weeks that College Ave supported the [Rotational Shelter Program (RSP)] in January, we had Carl and his 12-year-old daughter, Veronica, stay with us. Veronica was able to attend our Middle School ministry on Wednesday nights and felt very welcomed there. This led Carl to request if there was a way Veronica could continue to attend our Middle School Ministry even when they moved on from our church. Luckily, the next church they stayed at was very close to my house, and so we were able to give her a ride on Wednesday nights when I brought my kids to Youth Ministries. We were able to give Carl and Veronica a ride to our church on a Sunday as well. During this time, our Youth Ministries had a winter camp on our campus, and we were able to get Veronica a scholarship to attend. The other churches involved with RSP were very accommodating in supporting her desire to attend our Middle School Ministry, and we really appreciated that. Carl and Veronica were able to find housing through RSP and moved to a different part of the city. However, it was great to be able to support Veronica while she was involved with the Rotational Shelter Program.

Fresh Start

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 03:25:42 GMT

Hope Reaches Out

Joshua Khalil, a third-year college student at UCSD, reached out to ISN with an idea. Joshua founded an organization in the hopes of giving back to his community. The objective of his organization is to help people get back on their feet and support them with the tools and necessities to get started. The organization is called “Fresh Start”.

Joshua reached out to ISN, looking for a partner who could help him with this vision. The organization would offer individuals grooming services (a haircut/shave), toiletries for hygiene/shower, assistance with crafting a resume, applying for entry-level jobs, and providing them with work attire for their interview. Additionally, "Fresh Start" would include assistance in obtaining proper identification.

We knew Joshua's vision would be a perfect fit with the Rotational Shelter Program. Joshua worked with Manolo and the La Jolla Presbyterian Church to host his program for the guests in the shelter. Below is Joshua Khalil and his Fresh Start team as they gave haircuts to shelter guests.

Thank you so much, Joshua! We hope to work with you and your team in the future.

Making Music at El Nido

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 20:52:30 GMT

Added Depth for Children at the El Nido Enrichment Center

In 2021, a local individual supporter donated a piano to El Nido. This individual's singular act gave birth to a new vision for children at El Nido. In addition to the Art Class, the Reading Club, and the Computer Lab, the Enrichment Center could also be a place where musical curiosity is cultivated and talent explored. Adding a Music Class to the Enrichment Center would give children who have been exposed to trauma another safe, creative outlet. Music has a special role in healing. Maya Angelou attests to this sharing, "Music was my refuge. I could crawl into the spaces between the notes and curl my back to loneliness ".

Last week, powered by funds from the San Diego Foundation Unity Grant and the San Diego County District Attorney Community Grant, El Nido launched its new music class in partnership with the City Heights Music School (CHMS). One of the CHMS teachers came to the Enrichment Center at El Nido to begin the weekly lessons, with the ukulele being the first instrument taught.

The El Nido staff work hard to cultivate opportunities for children through caring and creative partnerships!

Standing in the Gap

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 17:50:09 GMT

Volunteers from Multiple Congregations Came Together to Shelter and Feed Shelter Guests

This year, a sudden gap in the Rotational Shelter schedule meant that guests were in danger of losing continuous shelter as they worked on their case plan goals. This potential crisis became an opportunity for faith communities to spring into action. Rotational Shelter Program Manager, Manolo Guillen, shares his experience seeing congregations step up as he served as the de facto Volunteer Coordinator during the gap.

Stepping into the role of volunteer coordinator for the first time was a profound lesson in community. Facing the daunting task of securing two weeks of shelter and meals for nine guests—including a mother and her three children—we quickly realized that while the challenge was great, the spirit of community was greater.

This experience became a masterclass in grace and collaboration. I am deeply grateful to Dr. Renate Pilz for her unwavering generosity in providing breakfast and lunch for two weeks, and for connecting us to Sabrina Stern at Christ Lutheran. On incredibly short notice, they graciously opened their doors to host our guests for one week. Similarly, St. Michael’s Catholic Church contributed a generous donation that made it possible to host our guests the second week at America’s Best Value Inn.

The logistics were a true symphony of kindness. Darlene Truver and Sandy Boelter with St. Peter’s Lutheran were my pillars, coordinating overnight stays, transportation, and setup. With Michelle Whitney lending us partitions to Clark Guest, teaching us how to assemble them, and Pastor Josh from The Center Church mobilizing an impressive host of volunteers for nightly warm meals for two weeks, every need was met. Pastor Josh invited volunteers from other congregations. One first-time Rotational Shelter volunteer from Common(s) Church wrote, " Pastor Josh I want to thank you on behalf of all of us at Common(s) Church for connecting us to such a beautiful and life-giving opportunity! We had a blast cooking and getting to know our guests and hearing about the positive developments in their lives since connecting with you all. Thank you again for thinking of us "

I will take with me two snapshots of our time at the shelter that define the very heart of our mission. The first is a vibrant mosaic of sound: the pure, infectious laughter and joy of little children as they ran and played, their spirits unburdened for a moment within the safety of our walls.

The second is the profound calmness that settled over us the moment the lights went out. In that stillness, seeing nine souls—tummies filled and tucked under warm blankets—brought a sense of sacred peace. In those quiet hours, we weren't just volunteers; we became family.

In closing, I learned that leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about coming together to create a space where compassionate people can step up. To everyone who stepped up: you didn’t just provide a bed or a meal—you provided hope. I carry with me a much deeper appreciation for the labor of love that you all do.

We All Count

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 17:35:25 GMT

The Count is about More than Numbers

This morning, well over 1,000 volunteers were dispersed throughout San Diego County. In the early morning hours, volunteers were counting, surveying, and offering supplies to people living outside and in shelters not suitable for human habitation. The We All Count annual effort is an indispensable piece of providing services to those in need. The Regional Task Force on Homelessness organizes the effort, and you can learn more about it on their website .

I was one of the volunteers this morning. I, along with two other volunteers (a county employee and a Point Loma student) searched neighborhoods in Rancho Bernardo, Rancho Peñasquitos, and Poway. This was my 7th time volunteering for the count. I have participated in this national effort in San Diego, Seattle, and Honolulu. This time felt different.

On my first several experiences with the annual count, I was deployed into downtown areas and large urban city parks. When you are assigned to areas like this, you typically walk the streets as encounters with the unhoused are common. The experience was something like the image above. Most of the people I encountered would be considered "chronically" homeless and knew and/or were known by, local service providers. They were people who could not hide their homelessness.

This year, the assigned region was sprawling and required our team to drive from parking lots to parks. As we made our way through some of the wealthy neighborhoods in the County, we did not see tents on the side of the road or overloaded shopping carts on sidewalks. We had to look a little harder to see those experiencing homelessness. The unhoused were sleeping in cars in the dark edges of parking lots. Windshields steamed from warmth breath, towels hung internally from passenger windows to keep some semblance of privacy, and seats fully reclined into a makeshift bed. Shopping centers with grocery stores, gyms, and coffee shops were home to the unhoused who did not want to be found. I contend that the experience of homelessness is about much more than not having adequate shelter. It is also about having the experience of disconnection, vulnerability, shame, and fear.

ISN's Rotational Shelter is a vital and necessary program for those experiencing homelessness and for those volunteers who host and run the shelter. The program provides shelter, meals, case management, and so much more. It also addresses the emotional impact of being unhoused. The hospitality offered by compassionate and inclusive congregations provides safe points of connection and soothes the shame. The unhoused know they have found a sort of sanctuary within these faith-filled communities. As a staff member at ISN, I have the opportunity to hear about the experience of Rotational Shelter volunteers as they deepen their knowledge of homelessness and their understanding of the unhoused community. I am proud of and inspired by the congregations who open their doors to the situationally homeless (ie individuals or families who have become homeless after experiencing a crisis). These are often the individuals and families sleeping in their cars and tucked in the corners of parking lots. While the image of the chronically homeless is more pervasive, it is actually documented that more than half of the homeless community are situationally homeless (some studies say up to 81% are situationally homeless). Generally, these individuals and families can again find stable housing once a specific situation in their life is addressed.

This morning reminded me that the experience of homelessness lives in every neighborhood; it just might be harder to see in some. And, this morning reminded me that there are amazing congregations who will welcome and uplift those who feel isolated, uncertain, and afraid. The Rotational Shelter Program works to transform lives. Contact Manolo Guillen, Rotational Shelter Program Manager, to learn more (manolo@interfaithshelter.org).

Isa's Tamales

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:54:53 GMT

A Great Story to Start the New Year

Isa graduated from El Nido in 2018. Since then, Isa has continued to compose her new, hopeful story with her business, Isa's Tamales. Recently, Isa participated in "CHOPPED" a program of the City Heights Community Development Corporation. This program helped equip Isa with business skills to take Isa's Tamales to the next level. Check out the news report featuring Isa by clicking here .

Isa has stayed in contact with El Nido since her graduation, and we are thrilled to celebrate her as one of the many El Nido graduates who have created a new beginning for themselves and their families.

Community Groups Bring Holiday Cheer

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 19:50:18 GMT

Numerous community groups of all shapes and sizes bring an abundance to El Nido.

The joy and generosity of the season come to life at ISN as community groups bring donations for families at El Nido.

Hearts Across the Bridge brings Thanksgiving meals to families at El Nido.
Azeem Court #104, Oasis of San Diego, Desert of California, donated Thanksgiving meals for El Nido graduates in the after-care services program.
The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers collected canned goods and new toys at their holiday party.

El Nido Holiday Party

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 00:11:56 GMT

El Nido Families Celebrate the Holidays with Alumni Families and Supporters

Joy, gratitude, and the gifts of the season were in abundance at the El Nido Annual Holiday Party. This highlight of the year was made possible thanks to the contributions of the community. Many thanks to:

Barb and Sheryl for providing a delicious main course,
The Santa Sophia Catholic Daughters for preparing wonderful side dishes,
Christine and congregation members from St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church for the perfect homemade desserts,
Cathie, for providing the holiday beverages,
Joan, for ensuring we had essential paper goods,
Kensington Community Church for hosting and leading the opening prayer
Mission Hills UCC youth group for orchestrating fun, interactive games and helping with the crafts,
The Transitional Housing Committee for helping with the planning
The ISN Board, staff, and volunteers who helped set up and clean up
and the San Diego Woman's Club, who pulled some strings and managed to get a special guest appearance by Santa Claus, who came prepared with gifts!

Interfaith Shelter Network is truly a communal endeavor. Thank you all for making a great event for El Nido families.

San Diego Ladies Hiking, Walking & More Club Steps Up

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 22:46:44 GMT

The club delivered in a big way for teens at El Nido.

The San Diego Ladies Hiking, Walking and More group can boast of a strong community of ladies. Yet their strength is not limited to their numbers or their weekly activities of hiking, biking, and kayaking. This group is strong in character, as revealed in their generosity.

Their holiday gift drive activity for this year raised more than $1,500 for the teens at El Nido. They donated $1,145 in gifts for the teens and $400 in cash. El Nido is one of the very few domestic violence transitional housing programs that welcomes teens and teen boys specifically. The San Diego Ladies Hiking group made sure this particular population felt seen, included, and blessed this holiday season.

"It was a very heartwarming and joyous thing for our group," said Kathryn Ruiz, a co-admin of the group. "I hope to make it annual from now on."

ISN and the El Nido staff are incredibly grateful to Kathryn and Mylinh, who helped deliver the items, as well as the group's founder Michella Puma, and all of the ladies who have made this a very special holiday season for the teens at El Nido.

Thank you, San Diego Ladies Hiking, Walking and More !

Turning 40 & Looking Ahead

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 17:58:30 GMT

One of the Early Leaders of ISN Reflects on the Rotational Shelter's 40 Years of Service

Rosemary Johnston was one of the first advocates for the Rotational Shelter Program in the late '80s. After serving as a volunteer in the program for years, she stepped up as the Executive Director of ISN and led the organization with vision and passion. Rosemary was asked to speak at this year's Rotational Shelter Orientation as the program celebrated its upcoming 40 year legacy in San Diego. Take a moment with Rosemary's stirring reflections below.

October 4, 2025

Welcome to the launching of our 40th season of providing shelter, resources, and services to homeless individuals and families in the San Diego region. In addition to serving as executive director for the ISN for 17 years, I also served as congregational coordinator in my own faith community and an evangelist of sorts in the Network’s early years, seeking out and speaking at numerous congregations about the plight of the homeless community here and how they could help by providing shelter and other services.

I became interested in the shelter program after reading an article in the San Diego Union Tribune in 1987 about First United Methodist church in La Mesa sheltering homeless people.

I contacted the shelter coordinator and asked a lot of questions about how to organize the program and also contacted St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church, which was also a host congregation at the time. I analyzed the facilities available at our congregation, identifying our youth room as an ideal site as it had an adjoining kitchen and bathroom facilities. Showers in an adjoining building could be utilized so that our guests could shower regularly during their stay.

I made an appointment with our new pastor to discuss the possibility. I described what was involved and pointed out the youth room as an ideal site, also noting the shelter would not be open during elementary school hours but only from evening til morning for two weeks. Various clubs in the parish could be invited to provide meals and overnight supervision. Cots would be provided; our only expense would be bus tokens for transportation during the day so our guests could look for work, remain employed if they had a job, and seek out permanent housing opportunities. My pastor listened respectfully and then said, ‘What about next year?’ My response was ‘what about this year?’. I think he was taken aback a bit, but he relented and gave me the go-ahead.

Working with the homeless community was an invaluable learning experience about the challenges people face when they lose their housing. They have no permanent address, for one thing. Today, many have cell phones, but not when the program first began to operate. Shelter guests often used their case manager’s phone number to give to potential employers or landlords. Utilizing public transportation was another major challenge, knowing they had to meet shelter curfew deadlines to check in around 6 p.m. every night. Building community with people they had never met before presented both challenges and opportunities. One client, an unemployed electrician, explained he had sold his tools as he descended into homelessness. He had an employment offer, but he needed certain tools. A parishioner, an overnight volunteer, donated tools from his extensive tool collection and took him to Home Depot, purchasing the additional essential tools at his own expense. A hand up, not a hand out. Oftentimes, shelter guests are struggling with depression and a lack of self-confidence. They arrive with more failures than successes in their lives. We have to give them space to share their stories and listen non-judgmentally while encouraging them to take advantage of the opportunity to know where their next meal is coming from, that they will have access to shelter indoors and showers, as well as budgeting and career planning classes, and case management.

Sometimes our volunteers recognized shelter guests as former high school classmates or as fellow Chargers and Padres fans. They may be parents and grandparents.

Our support congregations provided meals and overnight supervision, and I developed a menu so the guests were not being served spaghetti seven nights a week! Craig Ghio, owner of Anthony’s Restaurant and a member of our parish, provided steak and lobster one night! I had the schoolchildren draw welcome messages on placemats. One of them wrote, “I hope you find your house soon.” One Christmas, Temple Emmanu El in Del Cerro spent Christmas Day with our guests, playing basketball, watching football games together, feeding them, and staying overnight so our volunteers could enjoy Christmas with their families. Occasionally, I had to counsel a shelter guest about the rules, particularly not lingering around the parish property when school was in session unless they had an appointment in the parish office.

One time, my husband and I dropped by the shelter on Holy Saturday, the day before Easter. We spotted a man outside the food pantry and told him it was not open on weekends. Instead, we invited him into the shelter, gave him an opportunity to shower, and offered him used clothing. I couldn’t find any socks, and he said, ‘Sometimes we have so much stuff we don’t know what we have.’ I thought of the times I had to search for a particular item of clothing in my overstuffed closet. My husband went to a nearby store and purchased socks for him. I prepared a lunch for him, for which he was incredibly grateful. Dessert included an apple, and I realized too late that he had no teeth. I apologized profusely, but he said, ‘No problem, I just dip everything in hot water first if I can’t chew it.” After finishing lunch, he bade us farewell at the bus stop out front of our parish. As we turned to leave, he said, “Happy Easter.” We both felt as though we had just experienced a visit from Christ Himself.

Later, I would organize chaplaincy services for Project Homeless Connect, a one-day resource fair at Golden Hall for homeless people that attracted more than 700 people. After ensuring that my scheduled chaplain had arrived, I would roam around Golden Hall to see if anyone needed assistance. I saw a guy leaning precariously to the right side of his wheelchair. I tried to right him but realized his left wheel was missing a major bolt. “Is there anyone here who could fix it,? he asked me. There was no one, but I remembered that many handyman-type guys I know usually have what’s called a boneyard in their shed, collecting items they might need someday. I walked over to the facilities office and asked two custodians if they might have a bolt that would fit this guy’s chair. They came out to take a look at the wheel and returned with the bolt to screw on to the wheel. The man was overwhelmed with gratitude. Wheelchairs, I realized, are made for transportation, not to live in 24/7 as this guy was doing on the streets of downtown. I learned later that day that Father Joe’s Villages was able to enroll him in their shelter program.

When the city ran winter shelter tent programs, they would invite shelter providers like the Interfaith Shelter Network to set up a table and see if any of the tent residents might be a good fit for our programs. One gentleman stopped by to inquire how our shelter program worked. I introduced myself, and he shared his name with me. So how long have you been homeless? I asked. “I’m not homeless,” he said through his toothless grin. “I’m houseless. Home is where I am.” And I thought of the One whose name is, "I AM WHO I AM." And I thought of Jesus bemoaning the fact that “foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.” Luke 9:57-58

I suspect many of you could share stories as well about your gracious encounters with homeless people. And I acknowledge that not all of them may be gracious. And as this 40th anniversary approaches, it’s an appropriate time to reflect on the story of the Interfaith Shelter Network. Saul, David, and Solomon ruled for 40 years. Moses and Mohammad answered to call to become prophetic leaders when they were 40. In Islam, it is believed that the human brain takes 40 years to reach maturity. And the exiled Israelites wandered in the desert for 40 years before reaching the Promised Land. The number 40 signifies new life, new growth, and transformation, a change from one great task to another great task. The psychoanalyst Carl Jung once said that life really does begin at 40…up to then you are just doing research in preparation for self-becoming, a time of individuation. We become whole, integrating our hopes, dreams, fears, and wounds. The number 40 is mentioned 150 times in the bible.

At 40, the ISN Rotational Shelter Program has sheltered 11,180 homeless people without building any shelters. It has provided 313,000 bed nights of shelter, while the El Nido program, which opened in 1997, has provided housing and other services and resources to 150 families, a record to be proud of.

For the Rotational Shelter program, it is a time for new life and new growth. Numerous congregations no longer participate in hosting shelter guests, resulting in a significant decline in numbers served and a subsequent loss of bed nights provided. The COVID epidemic caused a critical blow to the way the program operates. Shelter guests could not be housed in congregate settings at local congregations but instead had to be moved into motels with catered meals rather than those provided by congregational volunteers. And volunteers and shelter guests could not be put in peril by gathering with people in assembly-type rooms at their facilities. Providing meals and critical companionship by Zoom just doesn’t work.

In addition, many congregations have experienced a serious diminishment in membership over the past decade as many elder members died but were not replaced by new and younger members.

Yet the need for these shelters has grown not diminished in the past 10 years, and data reveal more people are falling into homelessness than are finding shelter and becoming housed. In response, the Rotational Shelter has a full-time person devoted to recruiting new congregations and providing the training needed to operate them. And I see that the Network has a more robust set of grant funders than when I retired in 2013. I would suggest recruiting congregational coordinators and pastors as Network evangelists, reaching out to other congregations in their denominational structure, and suggesting they provide support initially to the host congregation to see how it is done. It may be that some of those served may be willing to speak at a local congregation about how the program helped them become self-sufficient again. At our parish, a shelter guest spoke after all the masses one Sunday, thanking the congregation for what he called its ‘uncritical’ compassion and hospitality. He said that one of his dreams was to enroll in a local community college and begin the process of obtaining an undergraduate degree. A woman in the congregation contacted me the following week and said she had cried all the way home and was willing to pay for his tuition. I put her in touch with that guest’s case manager to facilitate his dream of becoming a reality.

The El Nido program survived the loss of significant funding by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development not long after I retired when HUD decided to pivot from funding transitional housing programs which provide housing, case management and other services and resources to funding permanent supportive housing for the chronically homeless population, those who have been homeless a year or more or four times in three years and have a significant disability like substance abuse and mental illness. Yet thanks to the efforts of Network grant writers and the generosity of our donors, other funds were identified. Unfortunately, domestic violence remains a significant threat to families in our community, and the need for safe respite and an opportunity to rebuild their lives remains high.

What remains unchanged is the mission of the Network: to enable those we serve to move toward self-sufficiency by coordinating the efforts of participating congregations, social service agencies, and governmental programs in order to provide shelter and other resources to homeless individuals and families in the San Diego region.

What else remains unchanged is the dedication of Network staff in our Mission Valley office and at El Nido. I recently attended a retirement luncheon for Joe Zilvinskis, who served as Rotational Shelter coordinator and office manager for three decades. And I greatly enjoyed working with Maria Garcia at the El Nido program. Under Brandon’s leadership now, its future is in good hands.

The Network has achieved self-becoming. We know our niche in the web of homeless service providers. We are well respected in the provider community as a volunteer-driven program. Forty years is a great start, a reason to celebrate and to renew our commitment to help the 10,000 unsheltered people in our region move toward self-sufficiency through the combined efforts of various religious traditions, all of whom share a common commitment to care for the poor.

Thank you for your commitment to this essential ministry.

The Meaning of Langar Expressed at El Nido

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 18:36:07 GMT

Langar is a free, inclusive, community meal within the Sikh faith tradition

Growing up with my Sikh father, who came from India, I learned early on the meaning of langar, the community kitchen where anyone, regardless of background, can share a free meal. I remember standing beside him at our gurdwara, watching people cook, serve, and eat together as equals. I learned that langar wasn’t just about food, but it was about dignity, compassion, and unity. Inspired by those lessons, I now help deliver meals across different communities, hoping to spread that same spirit of service and connection. - Yasmine G.

Thank you, Yasmine, and thank your family for sharing the inclusive and generous spirit of langar meals with the families at El Nido. - Brandon Duran

Annual Orientation - 40th Anniversary

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 00:01:39 GMT

Volunteer Congregations from Across the County Say "Yes!" to Providing Shelter

On October 4th, All Souls Episcopal Church graciously hosted ISN's annual orientation for the Rotational Shelter Program. This event brings together volunteers from congregations across the county as well as case managers and ISN staff. At the orientation, Manolo Guillen, the Rotational Shelter Program Manager, shared with volunteers a message he has heard from shelter guests. Manolo said guests can feel the difference volunteers make. Guests say, “ You want to be here. You want to help. You genuinely care. “

Volunteers brought a wealth of knowledge gleaned from years of leading the program in their congregation, as well as insightful questions about how we best serve our guests.

The orientation included guest speakers such as former Executive Director Rosemary Johnston, who spoke on ISN's 40th anniversary. Jesenia Sanchez, a Case Manager Supervisor from Family Health Centers of San Diego, also spoke about the intake and screening process. Finally, Ginger Jacobs from Jacobs & Schlesinger LLP shared ideas for ways to keep guests and volunteers safe.

Thanks to the volunteers, the orientation was a success. ISN would also like to thank sponsors of the event, Starbucks Coffee, Trader Joe's, and Mendocino Farms.

The Power of Home

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 17:45:29 GMT

A Study from UCSD Confirms What El Nido has Known for Years

The San Diego Union-Tribune recently highlighted a study by UCSD that highlights the importance of making a house feel like a home. While having shelter is a critical need that thousands in San Diego are searching for, we need more than four walls and a ceiling. The study investigated the impact of furnishings and design on newly housed individuals and families. Approximately 25% of newly housed San Diegans fall back into homelessness. However, those who had gone through a program that helped design and furnish the space had a rate of returning to homelessness of 2.3%.

One of the special aspects of the El Nido program is setting the space. From the very beginning, volunteers from congregations and nonprofits furnish and decorate the El Nido units so that families immediately have a home to move into when they enter the program. In addition to this warm welcome, graduates from the program are free to take that "home" experience with them when they leave El Nido. El Nido grads are invited to take any and all furnishings from their El Nido unit with them as they move into their post-El Nido permanent residence. This invitation ensures that their new beginning is on a solid foundation. After moving out of their El Nido unit, generous congregations and nonprofits reset the space with furnishings, household items, and a fully stocked fridge so that the next family will have the same abundant greeting.

ISN is so grateful for the organizations that sponsor El Nido units!

Getting Ready to Go Back to School

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 17:48:38 GMT

The San Diego Woman's Club has El Nido Kids Covered!

The San Diego Woman's Club (SDWC) has come up big again for the families at El Nido. The SDWC are sponsors of Unit #10, but this time they've gone above and beyond to help all of the children at El Nido. The SDWC President, Judy Mantle, and SDWC El Nido Representative Diane Hazard stopped by El Nido to drop off $800+ worth of school supplies. There are more than 20 children living at El Nido. At El Nido, these children benefit from the volunteer led Reading Club, the Art Class, the Computer Lab, and the ImmunoMind Program led by students from UCSD. In additional to this, the children and families are supported by fantastic congregations and nonprofits like the San Diego Woman's Club. Thank you SDWC!!!

If you want to lead a " Back-to-School " clothing drive, then please contact El Nido Program Manager, Mary Garcia-Lopez at interfaith@interfaithshelter.org.

You can also check out the supplies needed at El Nido listed on this Amazon Wish List .

Or click the "Donate Now" button and make a contribution to El Nido.

Partnership Creates Impact

bduran@interfaithshelter.org (Brandon Duran) — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 23:19:59 GMT

Jamul Indian Village Supports ISN

After the ceremony honoring three local nonprofits ( Solutions for Change, Innovative Wellness Clinic, and Interfaith Shelter Network ), I heard Dr. Suzanne Afflalo say, " We can do good things separately but together we make an impact. " I wholeheartedly agree her sentiment. A similar conviction was shared by Jamul Casino Resort President and General Manager, Mary Cheeks at the ceremony.

" Here at Jamul Casino Resort, we believe that giving back is more than a responsibility - it's a core part of who we are. That's why we're incredibly proud to support organizations like IWC, Interfaith Shelter Network and Solutions for Change, whose work uplifts and empowers our community every single day.

It is with great pride and deep appreciation to present checks to support the outstanding work you are doing. Whether it's supporting health fairs for the underserved, helping the homeless achieve self-sufficiency, and empowering peeople to overcome poverty. Your impact is real and it resonates deeply with all of us..

We hope this contribution not only helps you continue your vital work but also reminds you that you are not alone in this journey. We're proud to be your partners...We look forward to continuing this partnership and making a meaningful difference - together. "

We are so grateful to the Jamul Casino Resort Team, the Jamul Indian Village, and all of those who donated through their giving kiosks.

El Nido Interview

bduran@interfaithshelter.org (Brandon Duran) — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 06:48:15 GMT

Kendall Invited Maria to Speak at Her School, Now Kendall's Expanding Her Audience

In an earlier post , we shared how Kendall Crane is changing lives for the better. Now Kendall wants more people to hear about the transformative work at El Nido. Below is an interview between Kendall and El Nido Program Manager, Maria Garcia-Lopez.

New Year's Resolve

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 16:08:18 GMT

We All Share in the Journey

The evening of June 26 marked the beginning of a new year. The Islamic New Year, also called the Hijri New Year, is a lunar new year commemorating the Prophet Mohamed's journey from Mecca to Medina. On June 26th, the Board meeting of the Interfaith Shelter Network of San Diego (ISN) began with the traditional reflection by a board member. This time, ISN board member and Religious Director of the Islamic Center of San Diego ( www.icsd.org ), Imam Taha Hassane shared a reflection on the significance of this day for Muslims. The Imam shared that this day marks a momentous migration undertaken by the Prophet and the early Muslim community that has enormous significance in the history of Islam. He observed that the idea of migration in the pursuit of faith is common in many traditions especially in the Abrahamic faiths.

The prophets traveled to new lands, either to preach or to escape tyranny and religious persecution. Abraham journeyed from Northern Iraq to the Holy Land; Moses left the tyranny of Egypt; As a child Jesus fled to Egypt and then returned to the Sea of Galilee. The Islamic New Year marks the Prophet's journey from Mecca to Medina, which was a pivotal moment in the history of Islam and indeed of the world. The Prophet's migration, also known as Hijra, eventually led to the rapid spread of Islam across the Arabian peninsula and beyond.

However, the story of migration for faith is not just a historical fact. It is a contemporary reality as it continues to happen to this day. Many families and clans can relate a story of migration either from their own experience or from the experiences of a parent or grandparent.

Just as the Abrahamic faiths commemorate migration, so also do they share the exhortation to welcome the stranger, to care for the traveler, and to extend kindness to one on a journey. Imam Hassane shared, " This is more than a message from a preacher in a pulpit...this is a reality on the ground, a truth lived out by the people. "

A unifying principle at Interfaith Shelter Network is our common belief that all people deserve compassion, respect, shelter and support. A warm welcome is what guests find from congregations in the Rotational Shelter. A haven is what domestic violence survivors find at El Nido Transitional Housing. On one level or another, we all know what it is like to journey, to be in between places guided by hope, and to need a helping and hospitable hand.

We are living in a time when it is dangerous to be on a journey, migrating from one place to another. You and your faith community can meet these uncertain times with your faith-based values. We urge you to join the Rotational Shelter as a host or support congregation, or sponsor an event for the families at El Nido.

Today is a new day, a new chance to live out our values and to help create a new beginning for someone in need.

Code Red Part 2

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 04:34:44 GMT

Victory Outreach of San Ysidro Blessed El Nido Families, Again!

" Felt loved and appreciated."

For the second year, Victory Outreach San Ysidro, blessed the families of El Nido at their Code Red event. Code Red events are committed to serving and uplifting those who have been trafficked, exploited, and/or abused. Elizabeth Munoz and her team of women at Victory Outreach organized a multifaceted event with activities for the women and children of El Nido.

" It was fun, the kids enjoyed the activities. "

Victory Outreach San Ysidro hosted a dinner for the El Nido families and set up specialized areas with a variety of services and activities. There was a clothing boutique area for women to choose new outfits, a self-care area with hygiene items, haircuts and manicures, an arts and crafts area for children, and a prayer corner for those who wanted to recieve a prayer. Additionally the program included toy giveaways for children and raffles with great prizes. Pictures of the event and activities are below.

" Felt safe and the people were really nice "

Flora Macias, El Nido's Computer Lab Technician, did a great job as El Nido's representative at the January 6th event. Interfaith Shelter Network is beyond grateful for Victory Outreach's support!

A Golden Connection

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 22:37:13 GMT

Kendall Crane's Gold Project is about More than Hair

Kendall Crane is changing lives for the better. A member of St. Michael's Catholic Church in Poway, Kendall has seen firsthand how faith and values become tangible blessings through service. St. Michael's has been connected to Interfaith Shelter Network (ISN) through the Rotational Shelter program. Now, through Kendall's Gold Award project with the Girl Scouts, there is a connection to ISN's El Nido program as well.

Kendall is member of Troop 2054 from the Rancho Bernardo Service Unit. Her Gold Award project has brought together members of her troop and local stylists to uplift and affirm the women and children at El Nido. Kendall has organized local stylists and bueaticians to offer free haircuts for the El Nido residents. She has held two events so far at El Nido and has plans for another session later in 2025.

Taking her idea to the next level, Kendall invited El Nido Program Manager, Maria Garcia-Lopez to her school to give a presentation about her work and to educate the youth about dating violence to Kendall's class.

Kendall says, “ Working with El Nido has been such a rewarding experience. I wanted to create a program that boosts confidence, and I’m beyond grateful for all the volunteers who have helped this come together. ”

Kendall's initiative, creativity, and service are a great model for kind of partnerships that make El Nido truly unique and transformational.

Celestial Nights 2025

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 07:28:05 GMT

Celebrating ISN's Stars!

With over 60 donors for the silent and live auctions, over 20 "Spirit of Service" Awardees, an generous event planning team, a dedicated staff, and a room packed with vibrant volunteers, how could Celestial Nights be anything but a success! The ISN Board and I are deeply grateful for the volunteers and supporters who bring the Rotational Shelter Program and the El Nido Transitional Housing Program to life. Our shared vision, values, and work produces programs that provide a bridge to a new beginning for individuals and families in need in San Diego.

While gratitude abounds throughout the year, Celestial Nights is a special time of year where the broad network of ISN comes together to celebrate lives transformed. The funds raised at Celestial Nights 2025 furthers that transformational work.

With Celestial Nights 2025 now in our rearview mirror, we look ahead. 2026 marks the 40th anniversary of ISN. For four decades our vision of empowering the unhoused and enabling their hope has endured. The necessary work of the Rotational Shelter and El Nido programs continues. There are volunteer opporunities for both programs that could greatly benefit from your time. There are financial needs for tools that can expand our efforts and tangible material needs for El Nido. There are ample ways you can support ISN's programs.

The picture gallery below of Celestial Nights 2025 reveals the power and joy of our combined efforts to serve and uplift. May these pictures inspire you to donate your time, talent, and resources in order to further invigorate ISN's programs.

Thank you for the ways you have supported in the past, the ways you support ISN today!

Volunteer Appreciation Month

bduran@interfaithshelter.org (Brandon Duran) — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 19:55:20 GMT

The Spirit of Service & Compassion Abounds in ISN Volunteers

April is "Volunteer Appreciation Month". In that spirit, we would like to share a reflection from one of the Rotational Shelter Volunteers, Lynn B. Lynn volunteers at First United Methodist of National City and wrote about her experience for her church newsletter, "The Heritage". Her experience highlights the heart of the Rotational Shelter Program and names much of what we hope every volunteer experiences as a part of this program. Thank you, Lynn! We so appreciate you, the team at First United Methodist of National City, and all of our amazing volunteers! Here is a portion of what Lynn shared.

For the first time serving the church, I had the opportunity to volunteer in the Rotational Interfaith Shelter program. I volunteered to be chaperone and provide a meal with my son, Jeremy, and good friend, Sarah.

I did not know what to expect, however, I felt, in my heart, the Lord was giving me an opportunity to love others as yourself (John 13: 34-35)," "be kind and compassionate to one another, (Ephesians 4:32)," and serve others (Mark 10:45).

In addition to not knowing what to expect, I also was fearful about spending the night with people I did not know and, to be truthful, less fortunate than myself. To allay my fears and concerns, I sought to learn more about the program. I asked questions, listened to other 's experiences with our Guests and knew that this was a service I could do. When Ben asked for volunteers, I signed up. I took a leap of faith and prayed to God. Just as in the hymn, "Here I am Lord," I sought to keep a promise to God to guide and use me.

My experience with the Rotational Interfaith Shelter was truly rewarding and transformational. I enjoy helping, serving, and meeting others that I would not be otherwise able to do. I found our Guests to be just like you and me. We each have basic needs for food, shelter, safety, and inclusion. In addition, we want a chance to be productive members of society; to be able to share talents learned and experienced.

During my rotation, I had the pleasure of meeting and interacting with two couples, a single mother and her daughters, and a single individual. We shared meals and conversation, played dominoes, and tried to complete a puzzle.

Through my interaction with our Guests, I learned what their concerns were and thought to myself, they are no different than me. We are all human beings, imperfect, trying to survive and navigate in a constantly changing, chaotic society. No one knows what the future holds. Try as we might, each day presents its own problems, sometimes good, sometimes bad. I believe the choices we make, and the free-will God gave us, shape our being. But whatever the outcome, I believe we can have influence in our Guests' lives.

My first experience volunteering at the Rotational Interfaith Shelter was a positive one! I look forward to the next time it comes around. I highly recommend each of us to volunteer our time and efforts to this program. It filled my heart with JOY!

Serving Faithfully, Finishing Strong

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 05:13:28 GMT

Reflections on the 39th Rotational Shelter Season

It’s hard to believe we’re already in March! With rotations in full swing—one even wrapped up—this season has been a great one so far. That’s not to say it’s been without challenges. We’ve had a few bumps along the way, but at ISN, we see those as opportunities to learn and grow.

Our congregational volunteers have been incredible organized, dedicated, and always stepping up to meet the needs of the guests. We are so grateful to everyone who has played a role in our shelters, both past and present.

What stands out this year is the power of collaboration. People of all faiths come together to serve the unhoused, and communication has been key. In the past it seems that a lot of challenges fell mainly on congregational volunteers and case managers, however this year it comes across as dedicated teamwork.

This is only the second year that Manolo and I have led the program and it's feeling more cohesive. I truly believe that’s because of strong communication and being present. The ISN staff has been available, responsive, and ready to support in any way we can.

Looking ahead, our goal is to restore the Emergency Shelter Program to longer-term rotations and expand our network of host and supporting churches. Together, we can continue making a meaningful impact.

Wonderful Workshops at the Rotational Shelter

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 18:17:49 GMT

Volunteers and Partner Agencies Provide Tools for Life

This season, Interfaith is honored to partner with United Way’s SparkPoint program and various financial institutions to provide our guests with valuable workshops on financial literacy. Some of the topics covered include budgeting, paying down debt, building credit, and how to avoid scams. These workshops are hosted every other Saturday by our partner congregations and are critical in helping our guests get back on their feet. We want to thank our partners from Cal Coast Credit Union, Mission Federal Credit Union, and U.S. Bank for volunteering to present at these financial literacy workshops.

A Welcome Light

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 22:30:17 GMT

2025 Begins with a Season of Light

As the holiday gift-giving season fades from the forefront of our minds with Christmas and Hanukkah behind us, it's important to remember the spirit of giving continues.

Today, January 2nd, marks the final day of Hanukkah. This Jewish faith tradition, reflects on the celebration of light and what it represents. The act of lighting candles during this time comes with a blessing spoken over each one. This meaningful Hanukkah prayer speaks to our hearts: “ May this light be a torch for those who are lost and need to find their way out of the darkness ”

On January 6th, Christians observe Epiphany, honoring the visit of the Magi who brought gifts of abundance. Coinciding with this date, the 39th year of the Rotational Emergency Shelter Program begins, as local congregations open their doors to share their gifts with guests in need.

The volunteers bless the guests with a safe place to stay, meals, more. Truly big gifts for the situationally homeless. Our mission is to empower connections between congregations and social service agencies in order to provide shelter and hope to the unhoused in San Diego.

Looking ahead to 2025, our hope is for our congregations and volunteers to represent this spirit of light for others. Let us hold onto the Hanukkah prayer in our hearts as we step into the Rotations Season this year of giving.

" May this light guide those who are lost toward the path out of darkness. "

Many Blessings, Rev Beci Rohkohl, Rotational Shelter Program Manager

Holidays at El Nido

bduran@interfaithshelter.org (Brandon Duran) — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 17:13:44 GMT

Communities of Care Show Up in Wondrous Ways

Hope – Peace – Joy – Love. These are more than the watchwords of the season. They are guiding lights that have illuminated El Nido.

On December 13 ^th , volunteers from various communities came together to host a Holiday Party for families of El Nido. The Catholic Daughters of Santa Sophia , members of the Transitional Housing Committee , the youth group of Mission Hills UCC , and the San Diego Woman’s Club brought food, decorations, games, and gifts for the children of El Nido. Current families and alumni families filled the hall graciously offered by our hosts at Blessed Sacrament . The event provided current residents an opportunity to meet with the people, organizations, and congregations who are lovingly encouraging them on their journey at El Nido. The apartment sponsors were able to meet the residents and El Nido alumni who could offer a hopeful glimpse of a new life after the program. After dinner, the evening included a few carols and a visit from Santa to pass out presents with joy (Many thanks to Aline!).

On December 15 ^th the youth group at Foothills United Methodist Church along with members of the Transitional Housing Committee brought Christmas trees and decorations for all of the units at El Nido. Lights, tree toppers, and presents under the tree filled each apartment with undeniable evidence that these families are cared for.

After the holidays, El Nido staff met with the families to talk about their seasonal experience at El Nido. Here is what the families had to say:

" My children and I are very thankful for all of the nice gifts, it was more than we could have expected and my kids were so happy to have gifts around the tree ”

“ Thank you to the volunteers who provided us with such nice gifts this holiday, we were so happy and emotional to receive so much and felt very loved ”

“ Muchas gracias por todo el amor que recibimos esta Navidad, por nuestros regalos y por nuestro arbolito de Navidad, mis ninas estaban muy Feliz, gracias por todo su apoyo ”

" From the Christmas tree, gifts, handmade stockings and toys and food for our holiday meal, we are so thankful for so many blessings and to have so many people care about me and my children ”

If you would like to be a part of the joy that comes from caring for the families at El Nido, contact our office to learn about volunteer opportunities or share a gift .

Hope – Peace – Joy – Love. These realities we get to embody for others and share with those in need.

World Homelessness Day

bduran@interfaithshelter.org (Brandon Duran) — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 19:04:36 GMT

Making the Connection is Key

Today is specially set apart, one could say it’s sacred. For nearly 15 years October 10 ^th has been honored as World Homelessness Day . On this day we take a moment to reflect, act, and pray for those experiencing homelessness and for those who serve and uplift them. It is a day to raise awareness and promote the good work in our community. We know that the numbers of those experiencing homelessness in San Diego is increasing. We regularly see vulnerable, unhoused individuals and families.

While homelessness regularly makes the news cycle and is visible throughout the county, it can be easy to fall into two-dimensional narratives about those experiencing homelessness. Inaccurate assumptions and stereotypes allow us to lose sight of our shared humanity. World Homelessness Day invites us to remember that, “We are tied together in the single garment of destiny, caught in an inescapable network of mutuality. And whatever affects one directly affects all indirectly…This is the way God’s universe is made; this is the way it is structured. ” – Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

On this day I am reminded of an article I read from earlier this week out of Oceanside.

“ A law enforcement official in North County said on Tuesday that two unhoused individuals were killed in the past three weeks, and another person had survived a third violent attack. ”

The brutality of the attack broke my heart. The article reminded me of the security efforts taken at various shelter sites. Again and again, I hear that the security at these sites is not to protect the surrounding community from the unhoused but to protect the unhoused themselves.

Near the end of the article the police urged the unhoused community to “ stay together, be vigilant and avoid sleeping alone. ”

Avoid sleeping alone.

Years ago I heard of an organization that hosted a “Sleep Outside” event meant to raise funds for a local homeless shelter. Participants were invited to gather on a large lawn with their sleeping bags. There would be a speaker, a meal provided, and a movie. While I appreciated their goal and intentions, I shared with the organizers that homelessness was about much more than sleeping outside. Often the trauma of homelessness is rooted in isolation. Disconnection with community, family, and friends, leads to the experience of homelessness. The pain of disconnection can result in dangerous self-medication. Ongoing disconnection and isolation can lead to further suffering, such as it did in Oceanside.

On World Homelessness Day we take a moment to reflect, act, and pray in order to deny the disconnect. We offer our time, our resources, and our prayers in order to show those experiencing homelessness that they are not forgotten and alone. Let’s us continue the efforts we have made in uplifting those experiencing homelessness and let us move forward with hope knowing that our efforts connect with the hearts and hands of other compassionate people around the world.

October is DV Awareness Month

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 20:41:34 GMT

Wearing a Purple Ribbon Brings Awareness and Encourages Engagement

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Families and Friends have adopted the purple ribbon to remember and honor their loved ones who have been victims at the hands of a person they once loved and trusted. Community support programs use the purple ribbon to raise awareness about the crime of domestic violence. The display of purple ribbons throughout the community conveys a powerful message that there’s no place for domestic violence!

Domestic violence can be defined as a pattern of behavior that is used to gain or maintain power and control over an intimate partner. Abuse can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological actions or threats of action that influence another person. This includes any behaviors that frighten, intimidate, manipulate, humiliate, or hurt someone.

Domestic violence can happen to anyone of any race, age, sexual orientation, or gender. It can happen to couples who are married, living together, or dating. Domestic Violence affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels.

If you or someone you know is being abused, call:
Interfaith Shelter Network -- El Nido – 619-563-9878 (Hablamos Español)
San Diego Domestic Violence Hotline: 888-385-4657
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799- SAFE.

Why I Love ISN

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 11:37:25 GMT

The amazing people I get to work with is just the start.

The staff and volunteers at ISN are dedicated, creative, and full of compassion. I am convinced that each one of the volunteers has a story that inspires them to serve individuals and families experience homelessness. The story that inspires me began in the in mid 90s.

I was nervous the first time I shared a meal with John. The length and matting of John’s hair and beard made it difficult to see his facial features. His eyes, nose, and lips were engulfed in shadows. His clothes told the story of a hundred nights outside in skid row. I was in training to serve as a host for an organization that connected congregations to homeless service providers in downtown Los Angeles.

John didn’t say much during the first meal of roasted chicken and pupusas. I also didn’t ask very many questions. But I went back to look for him at least once a week. Over time John shared more of his story with me and listened to me share mine. His gentle and resonant voice made his humanity shine through an appearance that kept people at a distance. It was that friendship with John that shaped a trajectory in my life.

After that experience I joined churches and pushed for engagement with the unhoused. One faith community opened their sanctuary for a month as an emergency shelter for 30 people ( more than the number of folks on a Sunday ). I was part of an immigrant church that committed to regularly making and delivering dinner for 150 folks in a Tent City ( they loved the Japanese curry ). One church set up partitions in the Parish Hall, and borrowed home décor from their Thrift Shop to create a warm feel to their rotational shelter that provided safety and support for unhoused families. I have seen faith communities create feeding ministries that serve over 500 households a week and others that started training programs that taught congregations how to advocate for affordable housing. In some of these projects I had a leadership role and in some I was just another pair of hands looking to help. In all of them I saw the creativity, courage, and compassion of faith communities to make hope alive for those in need.

The Interfaith Shelter Network (ISN) believes in the power of faith communities to make a tangible and transformative difference in the lives of individuals and families experiencing homelessness. We know that housing and homelessness cannot be addressed with a one-size-fits-all solution. ISN believes in the power of collaboration, that together we are more than the sum of our parts. By working with faith communities, social service agencies, and government programs we create a bridge for those seeking a new beginning.

I love working at ISN because I see the dedication and collaboration of congregations working together to host individuals and families in the Rotational Shelter Program. Congregations find life affirming and joyful ways to connect with guests in the program.

I love working at ISN because I see the creativity and compassion of congregations supporting women and children escaping domestic violence and homelessness in the El Nido Transitional Living Program.

I love working at ISN because I am inspired by the faithfulness of volunteers and by the stories of realized hope in the guests of the program.

I would love to show you inside the programs of ISN and introduce you to the people who make these programs come alive. Please reach out to me and let’s find a time to connect. I’d love to discover ways your skills, talents, and presence could add to a network that is helping dozens of people find more stable housing every year.

The "How" of ISN's Mission

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 11:38:31 GMT

Discerning the Way Forward

We all seek guidance for not only what to do, but for how to do it.

Renowned author and speaker Simon Sinek has inspired thousands with a simple reminder, “ Start with why .”

He writes, “ Regardless of WHAT we do in our lives, our WHY—our driving purpose, cause or belief—never changes. ”

The why of ISN is simple, we want the unhoused in San Diego to experience shelter, support, and a new beginning because we believe in the dignity and value of all.

I am convinced that this why, or a very similar version to it, inspired the original congregations to form the Rotational Shelter in 1986. Over time the “what” of ISN has evolved to address ever immediate needs and emerging resources. We express our "what" in our mission statement,

“ to enable those we serve to move toward self-sufficiency by coordinating the efforts of participating congregations, social service agencies, and governmental programs in order to provide shelter and other resources to homeless individuals and families in the San Diego region. ”

Proceeding from the “why” and the “what” is the “how.” The ISN board and staff have been discussing the values of ISN. The values communicate the manner in which we will live out our mission. The values are an expression of our “how.” As a part of this ongoing conversation we’ve explored various noble values in order to discern which handful best describes how ISN will achieve its goals. ISN stakeholders have discussed values such as:

Compassion – Respect – Teamwork – Stewardship – Empowerment – Service – Inclusive – Quality – Creativity – Thoughtfulness – Canny – Purposeful – Family – Leadership

As the values were discerned, three clear theme ideas emerged.

1. ISN believes in the inalienable dignity of all people regardless of their circumstances. Through our partnerships and the populations we serve, ISN connects with people of varied backgrounds and life situations. The inherent value of others inspires us to give our best. The thoughtfulness and quality of our work is a measure of our esteem for ourselves and others. The trust and respect ISN staff show one another builds a foundation for positive interactions and supports clients in their journeys toward self-empowerment.

2. Collaboration is at the core of ISN’s work. Our inclusive disposition nature invites partnership with all who seek to provide the unhoused with shelter and support that leads to self-sufficiency. Cultivating great relationships is key for implementing shelter solutions. With a “one team” perspective, we strive to empower our volunteers in their vital work of supplying shelter and support. We empower our program participants in their search for housing and a new beginning.

3. Every hour given, every donor donated, each meal prepared, and workshop offered is an investment. ISN believes the resources shared with and through our program are investments in our mission to enable homeless individuals and families to more toward self-sufficiency. ISN weaves together the investments of donors, collaborators, volunteers, and guests, in order to foster transformation and create a new beginning.

Distilling these three ideas into a single word is a work in progress. If you have ideas about how ISN shows up in the world, or about how we can summarize these ideas with a simple word please send me a message at bduran@interfaithshelter.org!

Together We Make a Difference

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 12:41:17 GMT

The Rotational Shelter Weaves Together Case Management & the Faith Community for Life Changee

Maria, 66, spent most of her middle age working as a live-in caregiver. But in 2022, after her last client passed away, she was unable to find new work and became homeless.

At the time, Maria used money she had saved to buy an old car, where she would sleep at night.

Luckily, in late 2023, Case Manager Gaby Barrera of the Family Health Centers of San Diego (FHCSD), helped Maria get accepted to a permanent housing project—and although the housing construction was expected to be completed by January of 2024, there were unexpected delays.

This forced Maria to continue sleeping in her car, and as tragedy would have it, it was later towed. Without any means of income, she could not pay the fines to recover her cherished car and began sleeping on the street, and if she was lucky, in a public restroom.

It was at this time that Maria’s fate would once again take a turn. Gaby found shelter for her at one of Interfaith Shelter Network’s rotations in Clairemont. Maria was grateful to finally sleep in the warm indoors and not in the cold rain at night. She quickly made friends with the shelter staff and other guests. Due to her bilingual skills, she helped interpret for volunteers and Spanish-speaking guests at the shelter.

On January 22, 2024, Maria moved into her new home and three days later invited staff to see her new place. When staff asked what her next goals were, Maria shared that she will continue focusing on improving her health and apply for Social Security Administration (SSA) retirement income on her 67th birthday.

El Nido Supported by Victory Outreach Event

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 12:40:28 GMT

The local congregation supported the women and families of El Nido at it's annual Code Red Event.

El Nido families participated in the Code Red event on June 7, this is an annual event hosted by Victory Outreach Evangelical Church in San Ysidro. In attendance were 10 past and current El Nido families, with a total of 25 children.

The members of the church who helped with this event, provided a safe space for the families to receive dinner, haircuts, clothing, and hygiene items, and a kids zone where children received toys and did art and crafts.

The women of the El Nido program could hear stories of courage and strength from some church members. The purpose of this event was to bring hope and joy to the families of the El Nido program.

Betty one of the graduate clients who attended this event stated “ that she continues on her path to safety and happiness and this event brought some hope that she needed due to her recent situation that has brought on some challenges .” Betty continues to stay in contact with the El Nido program staff and continues to receives support and referrals to services as needed.

After the families graduate and complete the El Nido program, aftercare support continues as required and all graduate families are still invited to attend El Nido events.