About

We change lives.

Pathfinders has been providing lifesaving services for more than 70 years. We have helped more than 10,000 men to recover their health, regain their stability and restore their families.

Our emphasis is on the individual needs of each resident.

Health

Pathfinders takes a holistic approach to addressing each individual’s overall physical and mental well-being to overcome or manage one’s disease(s) or symptoms. This includes teaching skills to abstain from the use of alcohol and illicit drugs and to care for any psychological concerns.

Housing

Basic needs of shelter, food, and safety are important for a full recovery to take place. Pathfinders provides a stable, safe, and supportive residence, during and after treatment.

Purpose

Pathfinders conducts meaningful daily activities, such as a job training, school enrollment, volunteerism, family caretaking, as well as the independence, and resources to participate in society.

Community

Pathfinders has strong positive relationships and social networks that provide support, friendship, and hope.

OUR HISTORY

Over the Years

1950

Pathfinders was founded — Seven San Diego men paid a month’s rent on a vacant, skid row storefront on F Street in downtown San Diego.

1962

Pathfinders moved to 2980 Cedar St. — our current location. This move allowed us to reach even more men.

1970

Purchased two additional properties next to the Cedar St. main house in 1973 and 1975, increasing our bed capacity to 41.

1987

"Pathfinders Day in San Diego" was first recognized by Mayor Maureen O'Conner.

1992

Established housing for dual diagnosed men — one of the most underserved groups of homeless individuals in the nation.

2009

Acquired a corporate office and 17 residential units for permanent supportive housing. The first residents began moving in March 2011.

2018

Under new mandates, Pathfinders initiated services that are modeled after the American Society of Addiction Medicine. These services adhere to established criteria for substance use disorder treatment. The implementation focuses on evidence-based practices in the realm of substance use treatment.