By TR Robertson
For 26 years, Solutions for Change has been “solving family homelessness – one family, one community at a time”. Their three-fold approach to the homeless issue focuses on a 700-day Solutions Academy, the Solutions Enterprise workforce development program, and the Solutions Institute. On Thursday, the Vista Chamber of Commerce celebrated with Solutions for Change, marking the continued growth of the Solutions Academy with the unveiling of the remodeled Chen Center for Transformational Impact. This was made possible using a $1 million donation from the First Singles Church, USA, secured and presented by board member Chris Chen in honor of his father, Dr. Richard Chen. The high-performance conference room is the first of several new centers in planning stages for Solutions for Change. Solutions CEO Aaron Byzak said Solutions for Change will continue to grow as a center for health and wellness, providing support and pathways to employment for families as they rebuild their lives.
Chris Chen said he helped facilitate the donation, and they have always been inspired by the story that Solutions for Change provides in the belief that these families can overcome anything with the assistance of programs offered by Solutions for Change. Acting Board Chair and CEO of the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce Bret Schanzenbach spoke about the significance of providing facilities and programs that can assist families who have struggled with homelessness.
Various agencies were in attendance and presented proclamations recognizing the opening of the Chen Center for Transformational Impact. The agencies in attendance included representatives from Congressman Mike Levin’s Office, California Senator Blackspeare’s Office, Supervisor Jim Desmond’s Office, the Vista City Council, and the Vista Chamber of Commerce. Chamber CEO Rachel Beld said the importance of Solutions for Change centers around their investment in the people in their programs. Following this, those in attendance were asked to join in for the cutting of a Red Ribbon by Chris Chen, commemorating the opening of this first stage of improvements for the Solutions Academy.
Next up for Solutions for Change is their fundraiser, Boots & Bling Gala, to be held at the California Center for the Arts in Escondido. For more information, go to www.solutionsforchange.org.
