Transparency & The Power of Lived Experience

I come from a place of lived experience—not just knowledge, but reality. I know what it’s like to be homeless, incarcerated, and part of a broken family. I understand firsthand the struggle to rebuild, the hard work it takes to break cycles, to become a better father, and now, a soon-to-be husband. And while I still have much to learn, I stand firm in my belief that transformation is possible.

At Pathways to Services Development, we don’t just talk about lived experience—we strategize around it. We see the power in the stories of those who are unhoused, incarcerated, or battling addiction right now. We know that their struggles hold strength, wisdom, and potential that can be used for something greater than themselves.

And here’s the truth: We are not even open yet. We have no brick-and-mortar location, no official staff—just a vision and a plan. We are currently waiting for our 501(c)(3) determination letter, and while we seek funding, we refuse to depend solely on grants and donations. As the Founder, my priority is making sure that Pathways is sustainable. That’s why we are structuring ourselves under the CalAIM framework, ensuring that we have the ability to sustain our work long-term.

We do not stand alone. Pathways wants to be a part of a larger coalition of service providers in Fremont and the surrounding Tri-Cities—working alongside organizations like Abode Services, Fremont for Everyone, FRC, BACS, The Melino Foundation, 2nd Chance, Tri Cities Non Profit Coalition and many more. We are here to collaborate, not compete.

This is more than a nonprofit. This is my dream. My vision. My reality.