Frequently Asked Questions

Donations

Q: How do I know my donation will be spent wisely?

A: The Twelfth Step House of San Diego (DBA Heartland House) is proud of its budget and fiscal responsibility. Our IRS 1099 form, budget and expense charts, and most recent audit are all available for review.These documents show low overhead expenses and a clean audit. In addition, we have been given a Gold Rating from Guidestar, (the world’s largest rating agency of nonprofit organizations) based on its review of our organizational operations, finances, measurements, and results.

Q: How do I know my donation will be effective?

A: Heartland House has brought benefit to San Diego County for over 56 years by providing residential treatment to adult men recovering from drug and alcohol addiction. The benefits of our program reach not only each man served, but his family and friends, and the community at large. Our effectiveness is demonstrated by our long-time contracting relationship with the County of San Diego HHSA Behavioral Health Sciences and Alcohol Services and our special history with the Veterans Administration (VA). Heartland House is one of only two recovery facilities in San Diego County contracted by the VA to serve veterans with substance abuse issues.

Our program has a robust evaluation. During their stay, Heartland House residents are tested to ensure they remain clean and sober. We track the number who complete their program, make progress toward goals related to their health, employment and family relations; and the average length of stay. We follow up with clients completing the program to track the percentage who remain clean and sober, attend 12-step meetings, have a sponsor, have no criminal activity, and are employed or are working on employment. We met or exceeded our targets in each of these areas. For more details, see our Infographic report.

Q: How do I know my identity and privacy will be protected?

A: The Twelfth Step House of San Diego has a Donor Privacy Policy that meets best practice standards for nonprofit organizations.

Q: Who does Heartland House serve?

A: Our programs serve an average of 110 men annually, most between the ages of 18-65. The majority of these men are low or moderate income. 69% of clients rely on family or friends for housing or are homeless. Our veteran population has been increasing steadily. Last year, 46% of our clients were veterans. The majority of veterans we served (over 60%) had physical and/or mental disabilities.

Programs

Q: How long is the program at Heartland House?

A: The is no standard length of stay at Heartland House. Each man’s program is unique to what he needs, to give him the best possible foundation to become and remain clean and sober.

Q: How long is the waiting list for Heartland House?

A: The typical waiting period for admission to Heartland House is between two to six weeks.

Q: What will it be like when I start the program?

A: For the first seven days at a minimum, we ask the new resident not to seek employment, enroll in school, or pursue any other outside interest. We feel this orientation period is necessary to become accustomed to group living.

Residents are required to attend a minimum of five 12-step meetings each week, a combination of onsite and offsite. Details will be provided upon acceptance to the house. We provide transportation Monday through Friday to 12 Step mutual support meetings in the community. All scheduled meetings, classes and groups are mandatory unless excused by staff.

Q: How much does your program cost?

A: Heartland House has provided affordable, effective recovery programs for over 56 years. Many residents have coverage for their recovery program through the Veterans Administration. We are also able to offer a sliding scale for those who self-pay, thanks to the County of San Diego Behavioral Health Services and generous private donations.

Our staff works individually with each applicant concerning fees and financial arrangements as part of the initial intake interview.

Q: What is expected of residents?

A: Residents are encouraged to help each other with the affairs of daily living. Each resident is responsible for his own living area and personal hygiene and is assigned daily house chores.

All residents attend a weekly house meeting. Residents elect an executive board as well as a resident peer council, which discusses any issues in the House and recommends possible resolutions to the staff. We encourage residents to get involved with the House, as helping others strengthens the recovery.

Q: How do I stay in touch with my family and friends?

A: Our recovery home provides men with a safe space that nurtures their recovery. Children, family members, and friends can provide crucial support for our residents.

Family and friends are encouraged to attend our Family Program, Saturdays from 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM, and may visit during designated times. We also host social events and holiday activities to help residents strengthen ties with their children, family members, and close friends.

Have a question that you don’t see answered here? Please submit an inquiry and we will get back to you shortly.