Veterans Village of San Diego
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Supporting Veterans in Need

Veterans Village of San Diego (VVSD) was established in 1981 with a mission to provide essential support and services to veterans struggling with the effects of war and trauma. Originally known as the Vietnam Veterans of San Diego, the organization was founded by a group of veterans with the guidance of Father William Mahedy, a Vietnam Army Chaplain. Father Mahedy inspired these veterans to create an organization to help their comrades who were homeless and sleeping on the streets. Since then, VVSD has grown into a nationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to supporting all veterans in need.

VVSD’s Early Years and Growth

  • 1984: VVSD opened a 44-bed licensed alcohol and drug treatment center to help veterans battling substance abuse.

  • 1988: VVSD founded the first-ever Stand Down event, which provided services for over 650 homeless veterans. Today, the Stand Down model has spread across the country, with over 200 Stand Downs held each year.

  • 1988: VVSD expanded its reach by opening an 18-bed transitional facility on 5th Avenue.

  • 1990: VVSD moved to its current location at 4141 Pacific Highway, renaming it the Veterans Treatment Center.

  • 1996: The VVSD program was recognized as one of the most effective treatment programs for veterans.

  • 1999: VVSD opened the Welcome Home Family Program, a residential facility designed specifically for homeless female veterans and their families.

Veterans Village of San Diego
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The Stand Down Event: A Hand Up, Not a Hand Out

VVSD’s Stand Down is one of the organization’s most impactful initiatives. Founded in 1988, Stand Down was created to provide a comprehensive range of services to homeless veterans. The philosophy behind Stand Down is to offer a hand up, not a hand out, emphasizing self-sufficiency and long-term recovery.

Key services provided at Stand Down include:

  • Outreach: Helping veterans connect to vital resources and programs.

  • Clothing: Providing clean clothing to restore dignity.

  • Hygiene: Offering shower facilities and personal care items.

  • Medical and Dental Services: Addressing immediate health needs.

  • Optical Services: Offering eye exams and corrective eyewear.

  • Legal Services: Assisting veterans with legal issues and clearing records.

Stand Down offers veterans a safe environment to put down their burdens and envision a path to recovery and change.

VVSD Today

VVSD has become a nationally recognized nonprofit, providing comprehensive services to veterans in need. With its treatment centers, transitional housing, and specialized programs for female veterans, VVSD continues to lead the charge in supporting those who served our country. Their work reflects a deep commitment to improving the lives of veterans through community outreach, rehabilitation, and long-term care.

For more information or to support Veterans Village of San Diego, visit VVSD.

The Downtown San Diego Lions Club proudly supports VVSD’s mission to uplift and empower veterans on their journey to healing and independence.