By TR Robertson
The Vista-based homelessness nonprofit Solutions for Change is undergoing a significant leadership transition following the removal of its founder and longtime CEO, Chris Megison, and the appointment of Aaron Byzak as interim chief executive officer.
Solutions for Change was founded in 1999 by Megison and operates a vocationally focused model that includes the Solutions Academy and workforce-based programs designed to help individuals and families achieve long-term independence. Participation in the program requires total sobriety and engagement in workforce training. This approach conflicts with state- and federally funded Housing First requirements, which prohibit sobriety or service participation mandates for participating organizations. As a result, Solutions for Change has chosen not to pursue certain state and federal funding sources in order to maintain its program model.
Following Megison’s removal, board chair Chris Chen served as acting CEO beginning in July until Byzak assumed the interim role on January 5. Byzak has been involved with Solutions for Change for several years as a strategy consultant and volunteer instructor. He has taught a course titled Three Strides Forward, which he describes as a program for “life rebuilding adults” focused on personal ownership and forward progress. The course serves as a primer to his widely taught Strategic Career Planning curriculum, which he has delivered in other settings.
Byzak is the owner of Galvanized Strategies, a strategic public affairs and leadership consulting firm. He most recently served as interim CEO of Grossmont Healthcare District from March through December 2025 and previously held roles as chief strategy officer and chief external affairs officer at Tri-City Medical Center.
In a recent interview, Byzak said Solutions for Change has a strong foundation and that he is committed to working with the organization to advance its mission and secure a sustainable future for those participating in its programs. When asked about the specific reasons for Megison’s removal, Byzak said he is unaware of the specifics surrounding the separation. He said his interim focus will be on operational performance, including improving the organization’s financial position, while preserving and strengthening programmatic outcomes. Among those outcomes, Byzak highlighted the organization’s reported 83 percent rate of graduates maintaining independence after completing the program, which he said he hopes to sustain and improve.
With respect to Green Oak Ranch, Byzak said the organization is currently in a holding pattern due to an ongoing dispute between the property owners and residents of an RV park located on the site. The RV park must be vacated before Solutions for Change has the option to move onto the property. Byzak said the organization is awaiting resolution of that matter before advancing its vision for Green Oak Ranch as a future home for Solutions for Change under a long-term lease with an option to purchase.
Byzak’s role as interim CEO is structured as a 20-hour-per-week fractional position through Galvanized Strategies. He will continue to serve other clients as part of his consulting work while fulfilling his responsibilities with Solutions for Change.
