Juan’s favorite part of the program is helping others who are struggling.

Growing up in Guadalupe, CA, Juan was surrounded by a loving family and a tight-knit community. His childhood was filled with sports, school, and days spent at the beach. With parents from Mexico, he was raised with strong values and a deep sense of community. However, despite his supportive upbringing, life took an unexpected turn.

As he got older, Juan found himself struggling with alcohol. It wasn’t something he sought out to be “cool,” but rather something that was always around him. Over time, it became a habit, one that he later realized was holding him back from the bright future he envisioned for himself. “I needed to start thinking about my health and my family,” he said.

Recognizing the need for change, Juan made a pivotal decision to seek help at the Mission. Arriving around the holidays, he found himself immediately immersed in outreach programs, helping the community. “It was the perfect time to come. I love putting a smile on people’s faces and helping out,” Juan shared.

At first, the program was new and unfamiliar. While he had heard of the Mission, he had never experienced its structure and community firsthand. But as he got to know the staff and residents, he found himself adapting quickly. “Now it feels like family. I have a great support system from top to bottom.”

Four months into the program, Juan has embraced every aspect of the journey. He’s grown closer to God, strengthened his faith through daily devotions, and found comfort in his church community. When asked, he described how his spiritual journey has evolved. “I grew up in a Catholic family, but I wasn’t as involved as I am now. The church feels like home, and I feel valued.

“It feels as though I’ve been there since the beginning. I feel welcomed and loved both at church and the Mission. I am cared for like I’m worth something.”

One of his favorite aspects of the program is outreach, particularly Celebrate Recovery and food distribution events. “We reach out to the Santa Maria community and show them love and respect. Seeing their smiles is the best part.”

Looking ahead, Juan is eager to give back to the community and reunite with his family. He hopes to use what he’s learned in the program to make a positive impact. “I want to take what I’ve learned and spread it back to my community. You never know what someone is going through. A simple act of kindness could change their day or even their life.”

For anyone struggling, Juan has a message: “You should consider this program. It’s helping me a lot, and it will help someone else too.” He is also deeply grateful to the donors and volunteers who make the Mission’s work possible.

Through the program, Juan has not only found healing but also a renewed sense of purpose. “I’ve learned to recognize my own value,” he shared. And with each day, he continues to grow, determined to use his journey as a source of hope for others.