Tradition One in San Diego, California, United States

Founded in 1971, Tradition One is a long-standing nonprofit dedicated to supporting men in their ongoing recovery from alcoholism and other substance use disorders. The organization operates an accredited Drug Medi-Cal Residential 3.1 and 3.5 treatment campus, fully licensed and certified by the State of California. Its mission centers on serving vulnerable adult men, many of whom arrive homeless, uninsured, or recently released from the criminal justice system.

Tradition One’s program emphasizes individualized, highly coordinated care. Staff work closely with community partners to connect residents with the services they need, including help securing Medi-Cal coverage. This shift has allowed many individuals, especially those who previously lacked access to care, to receive treatment they otherwise would have gone without.

Daily life at Tradition One is intentionally structured to build accountability, stability, and peer connection. Residents are responsible for maintaining their personal living spaces, completing assigned chores, and participating in weekly house meetings. The program also includes a Resident Peer Council and an elected Executive Board, which offer men the opportunity to discuss common challenges, explore practical solutions, and provide recommendations that inform staff decisions. Tradition One’s approach reflects a core belief that recovery is strengthened through community, shared responsibility, and “people helping people.”