From Addiction to Empowerment

Stephanie, former CERRC client. April 2023.

SAN DIEGO — Once living in a tent and estranged from her family, Stephanie struggled with substance abuse. Seeking help from CERRC, she embarked on a journey of healing and growth through their comprehensive outpatient treatment services. Battling her inner turmoil, Stephanie persevered with support from her dedicated counselor, Summer Kahoonei. Now, after 20 months clean, she has reconnected with her family, secured a job, and is determined to make a difference in the lives of others.

As she shared her progress, Stephanie expressed her thankfulness, saying, "Miss Summer, I called to let you know I am still doing good and remember everything you said in [the] group. I'm starting school to be a drug and alcohol counselor!"

ECS’ Central East Recovery Center (CERRC) provides treatment and services to individuals struggling with substance use disorders. CERRC’s multifaceted and dedicated team assists with services such as individual counseling, group treatment, assessments, and discharge planning. Clients who are facing other difficulties, such as homelessness or unemployment, will also be provided connections to related community resources.

According to the California Health Care Foundation, in 2021, nine percent of Californians qualified for a substance use disorder, yet only ten percent of those individuals sought help for their illness. Programs like CERRC are essential now more than ever.

With a high success rate, the CERRC program changes lives like Stephanie's daily. Her story highlights the power of determination and support; anyone can overcome challenges and create a brighter future. Please help us continue making an impact by donating today!

PLF Receives Award and Grant from St. Germaine Children's Charity

(From left to right) Janice Farrow, St. Germaine Children’s Charity President-Elect; Elizabeth Fitzsimons, ECS CEO; Katie Christensen, St. Germaine Children’s Charity President; and Timothy Whipple, Development Director, beam with the Barbara Christensen Heart of San Diego Award in hand. June 2023.

SAN DIEGO — June 13 marked a memorable day for ECS’ Para Las Familias (PLF) program, as its noble mission and devoted efforts were celebrated and acknowledged at the St. Germaine Children’s Charity Luncheon. The PLF program was honored with the Barbara Christensen Heart of San Diego Award and a $5,000 grant.

Moreover, ECS’ CEO, Elizabeth Fitzsimons, delivered an impressive keynote address at the event. She emphasized the crucial need for comprehensive behavioral and mental health services, exemplified by programs like PLF within our community.

PLF is unwavering in its goal to disrupt generational trauma and abuse cycles that besiege numerous families, particularly those within underserved communities. Through a wide range of services - including individual and group therapy, parenting support groups, screenings, and others - the clinic works tirelessly to build healthy parent-child relationships, fostering healing from past traumas and paving the way for a brighter future.

ECS extends appreciation for this recognition from St. Germain’s. This grant empowers PLF to continue its essential work in the San Diego community.

Head Start Hosts its Second Annual Art Expo

A Head Start student smiles in a handmade cardboard airplane. June 2023.

SAN DIEGO — June 2 marked a day of vivid creativity at Chula Vista Memorial Park, with the second Annual Art Expo by ECS Head Start ending in resounding success. This event displayed an array of unique art projects meticulously crafted by talented students and dedicated staff from various ECS Head Start locations.

The art display captivated attendees and showcased the enriched environment fostered by ECS Head Start, which allows children to explore the world through creative, hands-on experiences.

The Art Expo also celebrated outstanding achievements with a friendly competition. Capturing the attendees’ admiration, the Reo Center claimed third place, Montgomery Center secured second place, and the Palomar Center won first place.

Whether art presentations received an award or not, the expo exhibited students’ talent and the teachers’ devotion to innovative learning.

Head Start staff member proudly displays a class project. June 2023.

The art expo creations were nothing short of exceptional. June 2023.

ECS Honored as LGBTQ+ Leaders of Influence

La Monica Everett-Haynes, ECS Board Member, and Timothy Whipple, ECS Development Director, recognized as LGBTQ+ Leaders of Influence by SDBJ. June 2023.

SAN DIEGO — On June 12, San Diego Business Journal (SDBJ) lit up its pages with pride; the publication honored its 2023 Top 50 LGBTQ+ Leaders of Influence honorees with a special edition highlighting the various San Diegan leaders’ accomplishments during Pride Month. ECS also beamed with pride as two of our outstanding leaders graced the honoree list: La Monica Everett-Haynes, ECS board member, and Timothy Whipple, ECS Development Director. 

Everett-Haynes is the Associate Vice President and Chief Communications Officer for Strategic Communications and Public Affairs at San Diego State University (SDSU). ECS has prospered from her dedicated service on the board and her constant devotion to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Whipple started his position as Development Director just five months ago but has been serving ECS with his innovative and inspiring efforts for over five years. His work with the Emerging Leaders program, the Moonlight Ball, and overall philanthropic efforts for ECS has greatly impacted the organization.

ECS is thrilled to commemorate the accomplishments of Everett-Haynes and Whipple and to celebrate the incredible impact of the LGBTQ+ community in the San Diego region.