Who We Are
At Restoring San Diego, we are a Christ-centered nonprofit organization devoted to transforming the lives of at-risk youth throughout our city. Our mission is rooted in the unwavering love of Jesus Christ, through which we seek to reach, mentor, and uplift young people who are navigating some of life’s most difficult challenges. In addition to youth mentorship, we are deeply committed to serving our homeless community, offering hope, tangible support, and the reminder that they are never forgotten.
Many of the youth we encounter are walking paths we once knew intimately — paths marked by gang involvement, violence, addiction, broken homes, and cycles of despair. Our unique strength lies in our shared experiences. We are not distant advisors; we are living testimonies of God’s redemptive power. We understand their battles because we have fought them ourselves. It is through God’s grace and mercy that our lives were transformed, and it is that same grace we now extend to others.
Our team is composed of individuals who were once part of the very environments we now seek to restore. We were the ones running the streets, entangled in brokenness, perpetuating the destruction we now labor to undo. But Jesus intervened. He restored our hearts, renewed our minds, and commissioned us to return — not as products of our past, but as vessels of His healing love and hope.
Today, we boldly stand in the gap for the next generation. We meet young people where they are — without judgment — and offer more than mentorship: we offer authentic relationships, a supportive community, and a vision of a future filled with purpose, dignity, and hope. Our work is not just about breaking chains; it is about building lives, families, and communities anew.
At Restoring San Diego, we firmly believe that no life is beyond redemption. We are living proof that restoration is possible. Through faith, perseverance, and the transformative love of Christ, we are helping rebuild what was once devastated — one life, one story, and one neighborhood at a time.
“They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations.”
— Isaiah 61:4
Mission
At Restoring San Diego, our mission is to transform the lives of at-risk youth and the homeless by sharing the love of Jesus Christ through mentorship, outreach, and authentic relationship. We meet people where they are, offering hope, restoration, and a path toward lasting change.
Purpose
We exist to break cycles of gang culture, addiction, violence, and homelessness by walking alongside young people with the same grace that changed our lives. As living testimonies of God’s redemptive power, we are rebuilding lives, families, and communities through faith, perseverance, and the healing love of Christ.
Our Beliefs & Values
At Restoring San Diego, we believe in the transforming power of Jesus Christ to heal and restore lives, no matter how broken they may seem. We are committed to meeting people exactly where they are — offering love, compassion, and hope without judgment. We believe that no one is beyond redemption and that the struggles of the past can become powerful testimonies of God’s grace. Our work is driven by the conviction that true change happens through authentic relationships, Christ-centered mentorship, and a relentless commitment to rebuilding lives, families, and communities. We are living proof that restoration is possible, and we exist to share that hope with the next generation.
Christ-Centered Restoration
We believe that true transformation begins and ends with Jesus Christ. His love, grace, and redemption are the foundation of everything we do.
Authentic Relationships
We build genuine, transparent relationships rooted in empathy and shared experiences, meeting people where they are and walking alongside them with humility and compassion.
Hope in Every Story
We see every life as a story still being written. No matter the past, we hold fast to the hope that restoration, healing, and purpose are possible for everyone.
Commitment to Community Renewal
We are dedicated to not only changing individual lives but also strengthening families and rebuilding communities — creating lasting impact that echoes for generations.
“Restoring San Diego is more than a nonprofit — it is a movement of hope, healing, and transformation. Through the love of Jesus Christ, they reach into the darkest corners of our city and lift up the forgotten, the broken, and the lost. They don’t just offer services; they offer themselves, walking alongside each person with compassion, authenticity, and unwavering faith. Because of Restoring San Diego, countless lives are being rewritten, families are being restored, and entire communities are beginning to dream again. They are living proof that no one is too far gone, and that God’s grace can rebuild even the most devastated places.”
– Daniel Schacht
F.A.Q.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Restoring San Diego different from other youth programs?
Restoring San Diego is built on the foundation of authentic relationships and lived experience. Our team members have personally overcome the same struggles many of the youth are facing — including gang culture, addiction, and homelessness — and we walk alongside them through mentorship, support, and the transforming power of Jesus Christ.
How can I get involved with Restoring San Diego?
There are many ways to get involved! You can support us through prayer, volunteer your time as a mentor or outreach partner, or contribute financially to help us continue reaching more youth and families. Please visit our “Get Involved” page or contact us directly to learn more.
Who do you serve?
We primarily serve at-risk youth and young adults throughout San Diego who are navigating difficult life circumstances such as violence, broken homes, substance abuse, or homelessness. We also extend outreach and support to the homeless community, offering hope, resources, and relationship-based care.
Is Restoring San Diego a faith-based organization?
Yes. We are a Christ-centered nonprofit that believes in the power of God’s love to restore lives and communities. Our programs and mentorship efforts are grounded in biblical principles, compassion, and a commitment to sharing the hope and truth of Jesus Christ.