Celebrating a New Beginning: Brian Becomes First Client Housed in Imperial Valley
Brian made history with us. On April 8, he became the very first client housed in Imperial Valley—a powerful milestone for both him and our growing efforts to bring holistic, compassionate care to the region. But Brian’s journey didn’t start there.
On February 13, Brian walked through the doors of our Recuperative Care program at Community Care Campus Imperial Valley, referred by Imperial County Behavioral Health Services. He had just been discharged from a recovery home, was separated from his wife of 30 years, and had no place to call home. What he found with us was more than shelter—it was the start of a life-changing journey.
Brian’s Vision Board
From the moment he arrived, Brian embraced the full scope of services available through our collaboration with Encompass Housing. He received wraparound care that included medical support, behavioral health services, housing navigation, transportation, medication management, and substance use disorder (SUD) classes.
With each day, Brian grew stronger—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. One of the most heartwarming moments of his journey came when he reunited with his wife, rekindling the connection that had sustained them through three decades of marriage. Their healing was a powerful reminder of what becomes possible when people are given the space and support to recover.
Brian also demonstrated remarkable self-awareness during his housing search. When an initial unit was offered, he bravely shared that the environment surrounding it posed triggers that could jeopardize his recovery. This moment of honesty and self-advocacy was celebrated by his Housing Navigator, Beatriz, who quickly found a safer, more supportive unit in Brawley.
Citizenship Day!
On April 8, Brian signed the lease to his new apartment—and just one week later, he moved into his new home. Thanks to support from Encompass Housing, his housing deposit and first month’s rent were covered, and essential furnishings turned the unit into a place of comfort and stability. While under our care, he even saved enough money to repair his car, regaining a sense of freedom and independence.
And the good news didn’t stop there: just days after Brian’s move, his wife achieved a lifelong dream by becoming a U.S. citizen. Together, they’re stepping into a new chapter—stronger, united, and filled with hope for the future.
Brian continues to receive Housing Tenancy and Sustaining Services through Encompass Housing, including monthly check-ins and ongoing support to maintain his stability. His journey is a true celebration of resilience, love, and the power of wraparound care.
We are honored to have been part of Brian’s story—and proud to celebrate this milestone moment not just for him, but for our entire Imperial Valley program. Here’s to many more move-ins ahead!