Volunteering with Solutions for Change has been one of the most inspiring and purpose-driven…read moreexperiences of my life. From my very first day, it was clear that this organization is guided by a deep commitment to transforming lives, not just meeting temporary needs. Their mission--to permanently solve family homelessness through accountability, empowerment, and opportunity--is not just a statement on paper. It is lived out in every conversation, every program, and every interaction I witnessed. What sets Solutions for Change apart is their unwavering belief in the potential of every individual. Their values of leadership, responsibility, community, and long-term transformation shine through in the way they support families. Instead of offering quick fixes, they focus on equipping people with the tools, skills, and confidence to rebuild their lives in a sustainable way. This approach doesn't just change circumstances--it changes futures. As a volunteer, I felt valued and included in a mission much bigger than myself. The staff leads with compassion and clarity, always emphasizing dignity and empowerment. Watching parents take bold steps toward stability and seeing children thrive in a safe, supportive environment reminded me that real change happens when people are given both hope and responsibility. My time at Solutions for Change strengthened my belief that lasting transformation is possible when an organization listens deeply, leads boldly, and works alongside the people they serve. I'm grateful to have played even a small part in their mission and would encourage anyone seeking a meaningful volunteer experience to get involved. This is truly a place where change is not only possible--it's happening every day

If you're donating to this organization because you believe you're supporting trained professionals…read morehelping families rebuild their lives, you should take a very close look at how things actually operate here. The public messaging is polished: structured routines, trauma-informed care, professional oversight, and a stable environment for parents and their children. But the internal reality is the opposite -- and it raises serious ethical and safety concerns that donors would never sign off on if they saw them firsthand. A huge portion of the "leadership" enforcing rules and issuing consequences aren't professionals at all. They are individuals fresh out of treatment, moved into authority positions with no credentials, no training, no background in family services, and no experience managing vulnerable populations. Yet they're the ones threatening residents with termination and making decisions that determine whether a parent keeps or loses stability for their child. This isn't trauma-informed care. It's a revolving hierarchy built on fear, inconsistency, and unchecked power. When people who finished their own recovery programming only weeks prior are suddenly responsible for supervising parents, enforcing consequences, and deciding who stays or goes, it stops being a support program and starts looking like an unstable, unregulated experiment. And families -- especially children -- are the ones paying the price for that instability. Add to that: * rules that change depending on who's on shift * decisions made with no transparency or documentation * residents routinely threatened with housing loss over minor or unclear issues * supervisors who contradict one another because no one receives standardized training * and a culture where the program's image matters more than its outcomes ...and the whole "transformational" narrative starts to unravel quickly. The level of hypocrisy is impossible to miss. The organization demands stability, consistency, and accountability from families while providing none of those things in return. Donors are told they're funding professional support. What they're actually funding is a system where unqualified individuals -- still working through their own recovery -- are given authority over families who need real expertise, real guidance, and real safety. If you're a donor, you should ask: * Who is actually trained here? * Who is supervising families? * What qualifications do these "leaders" have? * How are families being treated? * And where is the accountability for the power being handed out? The image being sold to the public is not the experience families are living inside the program. And if donors genuinely care about ethical, effective, family-centered support, this is not something that should be ignored.

Very friendly staff. Emanuelle was extremely helpful and guided me through the process. He was even…read moreforgiving when sorting through my recycling to verify all the material is the same. FYI they take household batteries like AA, AAA, etc. I'm so glad I found a place to take my old batteries as I transition to rechargeable batteries.

Nice customer service and helpful with a nice smile even in trash place :-) literally trash dump…read moreplace but lovely people

A friend of mine was showing her art here and I came for the reception. It is back in the original…read morelocation from the last time I was here. It's a cute little spot. They have a lot of different art in various mediums. There were several pieces I was drawn to and most are for sale. I wish I had more wall space. They had a table with small bites and red or white wine. They announced the winners and handed out prizes. It was a nice event. Congratulations to the winners.

Today was my first visit to the North Coastal Art Gallery and I was very impressed. Not only is it…read morea free gallery, many of the pieces are for sale and fairly priced -- especially for their level of skill. When I walked into the space, the man working greeted me quickly and said I could fill out a small paper choosing my favorite piece, and they do a 'best in show' every month, based on the votes. That painting will be featured and the artist gets a ribbon too. It made the experience interactive, which I really enjoyed. Can't wait to see who wins!

Not only a center for senior, but this big facility also accommodate other activities for them,…read morewith different rooms for different things, seniors can learn new skills, join a social group or a club with the same hobbies, they could also watch films on a big projector or play board games, basically to keep themselves busy thru out the days. Parking lot are spacious, you can easily find a spot for your car at any time, no problems, stay as long as you can. The place also held a North County children films festival which I was happened to be invited as a panelist and part of the jury. I would say the center helped a great deal in organizing the space and thanks to all the great staffs volunteers as well

I attended a kids film festival as a juror on this facility. The place is very ample, well…read moremaintained, extremely clean, adjacent to a large park, plenty of parking, good customer service. My only suggestion would be to have vending machines with drinks and snacks.

In 2025, I lost everything. Brother Benno's Food Bank is the…read morebest in San Diego -- not just because of the food, but because of the people. The breakfasts and sack lunches kept me going when I had nothing. Blankets and tents help people survive cold nights. That support carried me through the hardest days. Alex, Darryl, and Melyssa each played a meaningful role in helping me and my family. Alex treated me with dignity and patience when I was homeless after domestic violence and a fire, and helped me rebuild through housing navigation and rental assistance. Darryl was a huge part of the 2024 rental assistance that helped both me and my son's father both keep our homes, protecting our child during an unstable time. Melyssa at Alpha Project brought compassion and steady support when it mattered most. Homelessness has changed. I saw grandmas and grandpas out there --in fact the elderly are incredibly vulnerable and make up highest percentage of new homelessness -- and this organization meets people with real humanity. Every person there is a blessing. Forever grateful. Don't lose hope

the thrift store HAS OUTRAGEOUS PRICES. You would think at this time when people are struggling a…read morestore that gets EVERYTHING THEY SELL FOR FREE would MAYBE PRICE THEIR STUFF RESONABLY. They're so afraid someone might re-sell and make a little money. Not worth shopping there anymore.

If you're a DIYer for your home and want professional quality outcome then come check this place…read moreout. We found the edging (brown, non-rubber) here that we installed ourselves. You'll find all kinds of better mulch, etc. Keep in mind this is not home depot, but has it's own specialty and items you won't find at home depot. The only plants I noticed at the time were vegetables, but they looked quite healthy. The people working there are quite knowledgeable, and helpful as well. You'll notice that most of their clients are contractors. They offer workshops for the public as well.

We had a wonderful experience with Brandon today. He was full of knowledge that he lovingly shared…read morewith us. He knew so much about composting, soil health and growing food. If you have questions about gardening he's your guy! Not only that, he is also compassionate and generous and makes beautiful jewelry! We're so grateful to meet him at Grangettos today and look forward to going back!

Incredible organization! I can't say enough good things about the facility, the team, and the…read moremission. Everyone cares so deeply about those they help and serve. I get a real sense of peace every time I visit. The world needs more places like Casa de Amparo. Thank you for all that you do for children and families in need!

One of my favorite non-profits. I have been here to tour the facilities, and have volunteered my…read moretime to help with the kids, teens, and young adults for five years through their wish list program at the holiday season. Tania is the woman that I've been communicating with at Casa de Amparo, and she has done a tremendous job at coordinating and communicating effectively. Every staff member that I've met has been loving and friendly. This place deserves a lot more credit than it gets because they are involved in extremely difficult situations at times, and they are doing so much to help. I just learned that Amparo translates to protection, shelter, and help. Many of the kids at Casa de Amparo are being provided a safe shelter.

This is a men's homeless shelter located in a nice, safe area of Carlsbad. I have a friend who…read moreneeded the services of Los Posadas. The exterior looks to be brand new and clean. They provide daily meals, showers, laundry facilities, a bed and a safe roof over your head. In addition, they provide job and future housing services.

La Posada de Guadalupe Shelter - Carlsbad, CA…read more La Posada is the only shelter in San Diego's North County region that provides emergency services to both day laborers and the general homeless population. Located in Carlsbad, La Posada is well positioned to help homeless men reintegrate back into society as contributing and productive members of our community. The mission of Homeless Men's Services is to provide men with tools to improve their quality of life, retain their personal dignity and be welcomed back into their communities. Complete list of services: Emergency housing and meals for up to 3 months Case management services including counseling for issues like substance abuse, anger management and financial workshops Translation and interpretation services Assistance with employment leads, resources, and job applications Assistance with setting medical and dental appointments and acquiring medical screening tests On-site self-help group meetings Assistance with on-site and outside medical services Do you have items to donate? Contact La Posada de Guadalupe Shelter at the phone number provided above to see if they can use any items you may have to donate. RAVE REVIEWS FOR LOS POSADAS!!! Men's Shelter ***************************** New facility is magnificent! Built in 2012 this multi-million dollar building sits atop Carlsbad with beautiful views 360. State-of the-Art Kitchen, Dining Room, 50 bed dorm, migrant worker quarters, laundry, and administrative offices. Located next to the CITY OF CARLSBAD SAFETY CENTER, Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Kudos to Carlsbad, Catholic Charities, the many donors and supporters. Started about 20 years ago to provide temporary housing for migrant workers, Los Posadas has expanded it's program to include HOMELESS MEN. The program offers a 60 day no cost stay including 3 meals a day and sack lunches. Ammenities include a slate regulation pool table, outdoor BBQ, library, resources, jobs and housing board. To qualify all you need is the desire to find gainful employment, do a small chore and abide by house rules. The 60 day term is designed to get residents a chance to accumulate funds. Other charities and organizations work to help residents find jobs and housing. NOTE: City of Carlsbad and Interfaith Community Services operate a day labor program one block from the facility. Carlsbad Library and other services are available. See case worker for references. **** F O U R S T A R S ********* KUDOS TO LOS POSADAS STAFF & SUPPORTERS ********* My story: I personally benefitted as I get a small monthly stipend from Social Security. My van was impounded and I was left homeless and hopeless. During my stay I was able to accumulate enough funds to get a car. I am on a short list with Interfaith's 25 Cities Program for fast track housing placement. I would recommend this program to anyone serious about getting out of being homeless. You are required to be CLEAN & SOBER and attend AA meetings help in the dining room one a week. Thanks to everyone at Los Posadas!