On October 23, 1993, 28 African American men, recent graduates of the Delancey Street Foundation—a non-traditional treatment facility emphasizing self-sufficiency, accountability, and strong work ethics—formed a support group. This marked the beginning of our lifelong journey towards lasting sustainability. We initially gathered at Lee and Gwen Boone’s home in the Bayview area of San Francisco to discuss how we could continually develop and enhance the skills needed for employment and personal fulfillment. Our goal was to create a support network that would connect individuals facing similar challenges and support ongoing recovery from incarceration and drug abuse. Data showed that a significant number of Black men completing the program struggled with sustaining sobriety and faced high recidivism rates due to personal, sociological, economic, and lifestyle factors. Our support group model effectively addressed these emotional and personal struggles experienced post-graduation. Recognizing the impact of our work and its benefits for our families and community, we decided to extend our support network to include men, women, and individuals of all races, religions, and backgrounds. We organized fundraisers, hosted community events like clean and sober dances, and BBQs, creating a brand and expanding our reach. Positive Directions Equals Change, Inc. emerged from our desire to address community needs through strategic and collaborative efforts. In January 1994, during a monthly meeting, Cregg Johnson and Cedric Akbar were tasked with formalizing our vision, mission statement, membership structure, and organizational framework. Initially focusing on outpatient treatment, our services evolved to include case management, substance abuse treatment, transitional housing, and employment opportunities. Our mission is to foster personal and social responsibility within the community, tackle long-term issues related to drug abuse and incarceration, and support individuals and families in achieving successful recovery and reducing destructive behavior. Our first office was at the United Council, 2111 Jennings Street, San Francisco, where we began outpatient services in May 1994, offering Life Skills, Health Education, Resume Writing, and Substance Abuse classes. Despite the small space, it served its purpose with gratitude and humility. Two years later, we moved to 4716 Third Street, building a reputation in the Bayview Community for supporting the formerly incarcerated and those with substance abuse issues. In 2010, we relocated to 1633 Newcomb Avenue, San Francisco, and continue to build on the vision of our founders and all who joined us. Over the past 30 years, PDEC has become synonymous with collaborative community partnership in San Francisco. We have successfully assisted families with reunification and served thousands with criminal and substance abuse backgrounds. Our mission remains as relevant today as it was in 1993, and our future is bright. Despite numerous challenges, we have shown resilience, character, and hope, and there is much more to our story.