Author: Seth Abrahamson

New Digital Resource Center at PRC’s Hummingbird Valencia Respite Center

Posted on by Seth Abrahamson

We are thrilled to share that Hummingbird Valencia (HBV), our low-barrier psychiatric respite center designed to support individuals experiencing homelessness, has taken a significant step toward fostering digital inclusion with the launch of our new Digital Resource Lab. This innovative addition, made possible through seed funding provided by Wells Fargo, is now available to HBV clients and features four computer stations designed to bridge the digital divide. 

Orlando Vargas, HBV Program Director, shared:

“It’s been amazing watching our clients access technology, which empowers them to search for jobs, connect with community resources, and explore other educational opportunities. I take pride that we create a safe and supportive environment, helping people rebuild their lives.”

Clients themselves say it best:

“I use the computers to look for directions to the different services in the city.”

“I use it to look up biographies to keep me motivated and hopeful.”

“The computer lab helps me to be more independent, stay connected, and provides hope.”

The new Digital Resource Lab is a natural extension of HBV’s mission to empower individuals on their journey toward wellness and self-sufficiency. Our client-centered approach to care also offers free day drop-in services that meet basic needs, such as access to laundry facilities, meals, showers, and support in connecting to healthcare or housing services.  

The lab’s creation reflects PRC’s broader commitment to addressing the digital divide, root causes of homelessness, and unemployment among marginalized populations, including those with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. In addition to job searching, clients can use the computers to apply for benefits, create resumes, and access online training programs.  

ALSO INSIDE HUMMINGBIRD VALENCIA

CEO Update: Federal Funding Freeze and PRC

Posted on by Seth Abrahamson

Dear friend,

Like you, I was dismayed last month as news about the federal funding freeze sent shockwaves throughout the country. Just as soon as the memo that ordered the freeze was released, it was rescinded, whiplashing every federal contractor including PRC. While the freeze is temporarily on hold, we know more disruption, uncertainty, and scrutiny is on the horizon.  

What did the funding freeze order say?  

The order directed each federal agency to review all their financial assistance programs to identify programs, projects, and activities consistent with the President’s policies as outlined by executive orders signed during the initial days of his administration. In the interim, federal agencies were required to temporarily pause all activities related to obligation or disbursement of all financial assistance, including, but not limited to, financial assistance for foreign aid, nongovernmental organizations, DEI, woke gender ideology, and the green new deal.  

What’s at stake for PRC and our San Francisco community?  

Emergency financial assistance (formerly AIDS Emergency Fund), HIV testing, healthcare advocacy, HIV housing services, critical services for our LGBTQIA+ community, and our important work on diversity, equity, and inclusion are all at risk of disruption. It remains to be seen if Medicaid or Medicare benefits will be impacted by the funding freeze or by a federal budget deal that contemplates cuts for healthcare and food assistance. If so, mental health treatment, case management, and housing programs may be affected too.  

All told, PRC’s variety of programs help thousands of people every year. Our clients are stabilizing their lives, managing disability or healthcare, starting new jobs, and securing housing. Breaks or reductions in funding with no contingency plans or alternatives set our community back, increasing the risk of homelessness, illness, and impoverishment.  

What are we doing?  

With so much at stake, we are activating and organizing. Our team has already developed plans to manage various funding scenarios that may impact services, including taking precautionary measures to preserve cash and available resources. We continue to implement efficiencies and streamline operations to become stronger, more agile, and even more resilient to confront challenges ahead. We are also reaching out to members in our philanthropic community to find out what resources may be available to support services in the case of temporary federal funding disruptions, and we are committed to supporting our staff so that they can continue to effectively serve clients.

Most importantly, we are continuing our work with love for our community and pride in diversity and inclusion. Our clients deserve our undivided attention because they continue to experience poverty, the wealth gap continues to widen, and people still need mental health recovery and treatment. So, we’re here to help and we’re here to stay.  

This is a time when division breeds weakness, and it is more important now than ever to stick together. If you are interested in activating, let us know, spread the word about how PRC has changed your life or the life of someone you know, or make your opinion known by writing to your legislators. You can also join us at our upcoming Open House or consider supporting PRC and other organizations you care deeply about with a financial contribution. Whatever you can do is important and is enough. Thank you for supporting PRC and for sticking with us.  

Sincerely,  

Chuan Teng, CEO  PRC

Celebrating the Bare Chest Calendar: A Brotherhood of Support for PRC

Posted on by Seth Abrahamson

For over four decades, the Bare Chest Calendar (BCC) has been more than just a fundraiser, it’s been a community, a movement, and a lifeline for PRC and our clients. As PRC’s oldest community fundraiser, the Bare Chest Calendar holds a special place in our hearts, and we are forever grateful for their unwavering support.

On Thursday, February 13th, at the Powerhouse Bar during the third preliminary competition, the 2025 Bare Chest Calendar Men proudly presented a check for an incredible $249,641 from the 2025 calendar sales. This marks the second-highest single-year total in the BCC’s 41-year history! PRC CEO Chuan Teng, Chief Development Officer Randi Paul, and Development Communications Manager Seth Abrahamson joined the men on stage to express their heartfelt appreciation for their dedication and unwavering support.

The BCC has raised over $2 million since its founding, and in just the last three years, has raised over $290,000 to support PRC’s life-changing services. But their impact goes far beyond fundraising.

More Than a Calendar

Each year, the men featured in the BCC do much more than pose shirtless. From June through December, they dedicate countless hours to local and statewide fundraising events, educating the community about the organizations they support, and representing a cause that changes lives.

The BCC is more than a fundraiser—it’s a Brotherhood. Guided by Den Daddies, these men form deep connections, support one another, and return year after year to continue the tradition. Some of them have even been recipients of PRC’s services, and their participation is a way of giving back to the organizations that have helped them.

A Transformational Experience

For many Calendar Men, the experience is life-changing. They’ve shared stories of how it has:
✔ Helped them integrate into a new city
✔ Built their confidence in public speaking
✔ Made them feel more comfortable in their skin
✔ Connected them with incredible people and lasting friendships

The Bare Chest Calendar is about courage, camaraderie, and community, and we couldn’t be more proud of the men who step up every year to support PRC and other vital organizations.

Join the Legacy

Do you have what it takes to be a Bare Chest Calendar Man? Now is your chance to compete for a spot in the next calendar and become part of this incredible brotherhood.

Sign up today: https://barechest.org/Compete

Everyone at PRC would like to thank the Bare Chest Calendar for their dedication, passion, and heart. Your work fuels PRC’s mission, and we are forever grateful.

SAVE THE DATE! FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3

Posted on by Seth Abrahamson

Friday, October 3, 2025 | 6:30 PM | The Pearl | 601 19th St.

Take a chance on…

Growth. Healing. Love. Hope. Excitement. Possibility.

PRC’s Mighty Real Fundraiser is a chance to believe in something bigger. Named after the iconic song You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real) by Sylvester, the larger-than-life Queen of Disco and PRC’s greatest benefactor, Mighty Real pays homage to the star who benefitted from PRC’s services and in turn gifted his future music royalties to PRC. In gratitude, we honor Sylvester, his legacy, and the community he continues to uplift, through the namesake of our signature fundraising event of the year.

Stay tuned for details.

Transforming Robertson Place – Recap of Phase Three. People are Awesome!

Posted on by Seth Abrahamson

This past Saturday, an incredible group of volunteers, board members, and staff came together to revitalize the garage space at our 90-day residential treatment site, Robertson Place, transforming it from a dusty storage space into a vibrant gathering and recreational space for our clients and team. In just three short hours, we accomplished what could have taken an entire day, proving once again, that when people come together with purpose, the impact is extraordinary. 

This project was the final step in a three-part transformation of Robertson Place, a treatment care home supporting individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. The garage, once a blank slate, is now a vibrant gathering and recreational space—a place where healing and growth can flourish. 

BEFORE
DURING
AFTER

But the transformation wasn’t just about the fresh coat of paint. Thanks to the generosity of our community, the space is now fully furnished with everything needed to make it comfortable and inviting. Three sofas, three lift-top coffee tables, end tables, rugs, and even an air hockey/ping pong table were all donated by community members. These contributions turned a simple space into a welcoming environment where clients and staff can connect, relax, and heal. 

And perhaps most importantly, this event was a powerful reminder that kindness is alive and well. Volunteers showed up to prove that unity, generosity, and human connection are strong and thriving. Each of them brought not just their time and effort but also their heart—and this will leave a lasting impact on everyone who walks into this space. 

To our amazing volunteers and generous donors—thank you! Your dedication and teamwork remind us that small actions, when combined, create lasting change. 

Want to be part of our next volunteer event? We’d love to have you! Stay connected with us to learn about upcoming opportunities to give back and make a difference. 

Join us for our annual Open House! Wednesday, March 12, 5:00 – 7:00 pm

Posted on by Seth Abrahamson

PRC’s Integrated Services Center
170 9th Street, San Francisco

RSVP

This is a wonderful opportunity to:

  • Meet the dedicated frontline workers who deliver PRC’s life-elevating services.
  • Learn firsthand about the transformative programs that are effecting real change in San Francisco.
  • Explore PRC’s Integrated Services Center, where over 5,000 individuals receive behavioral health and social services each year.

Enjoy refreshments and some surprises as we celebrate the work we do together as a community and recognize the leadership that makes it all possible. We’ll be honoring CEO Chuan Teng’s contributions to PRC in steering the organization through challenging times to its current strong position as she prepares to transition to her next chapter.  

Join us to learn, get inspired, celebrate successes, and be a part of the PRC family. We look forward to seeing you! 

Save the Date for our 2025 Events

Staff Appreciation Month Black Leadership Council’s Advocacy Day
All Month Long Thursday, June 19

Mighty Real Fundraiser Songs of the Season
Friday, October 3 Tuesday and Wednesday
December 9 and 10

Community Winter Celebration Volunteer Activations
Wednesday, December 17 Quarterly

Important Message from PRC’s CEO Chuan Teng

Posted on by Seth Abrahamson

Dear Friend,

Happy New Year! 

As we launch into 2025, I write to share some personal news. After 14 years at PRC and the last two years as CEO, I am transitioning onto my next professional chapter. Right now, my plan is to work on a number of projects and creative endeavors that I have been thinking about for a long time. As PRC teaches us, we are each the chief architects of our own lives, and now, it’s time for me to create the next chapter of my life. 

Over the years, I have had the joy of working closely with many partners, funders, and supporters, including you. Your passion, kindness, and commitment to PRC’s mission enable PRC to make a profound impact on the lives of countless clients and community members in San Francisco. Thank you for your loyal and unwavering partnership. 

While this announcement may be surprising for some, it comes at just the right time. PRC has overcome a dynamic and challenging period, and the organization is stronger than ever. I am incredibly proud of our progress. As the organization embarks on its 2025-2030 strategic plan, PRC’s next CEO, Board, and stakeholders will have the opportunity to chart the path forward upon the steady foundation we have created together. 

These are not my departing words. I will remain in my role through April 30, 2025. During this time, I will work with PRC’s Board of Directors to recruit a new CEO and ensure a smooth transition. After that date, I look forward to cheering PRC on as an advocate and ally for this incredible organization. 


Very sincerely,

Chuan Teng's signature

Chuan Teng, CEO 

PRC

Join Orlando in transforming lives this holiday season

Posted on by Seth Abrahamson

This holiday season, join us in supporting healing journeys at PRC’s Hummingbird Valencia Respite Center.

For many, walking through our doors marks a first step toward hope. Orlando, our dedicated Project Director, knows this firsthand. Nineteen years ago, he turned his life around, he entered a one-year treatment program leaving behind a cycle of incarceration and substance use to embark on a path of helping others. Today, he and his team welcome those at their lowest offering essentials like food, showers, clothing, and a warm place to heal.

Orlando shares, “Seeing someone come in disheveled with a sad expression and sometimes without shoes, is heartbreaking. We connect them to services and when they leave, they go with a smile. That’s a beautiful thing to be a part of. We meet people where they’re at and provide support that restores dignity and hope.”

Each person who walks through our doors carries a story of loss, hardship, and resilience. From escaping homelessness and addiction to veterans battling mental health challenges, the transformations we witness are profound. Your generosity provides more than the essentials by adding the compassion and care that restore faith and humanity.

With your support, we can ensure that more individuals experience these transformative moments. You can help bridge the gap to housing, healthcare, and stability for San Franciscans in need.

Please make your year-end gift today and be an integral part of these remarkable healing journeys.

Donate Today



Thank you for believing in a brighter future for all.

Happy Holidays,
All of us at PRC

Highlighting Rebecca Dawson: A Rockstar at PRC’s Hummingbird Valencia 

Posted on by Seth Abrahamson

Rebecca Dawson stands out as a true rockstar at PRC’s Hummingbird Valencia, one of two innovative Hummingbird programs. The Hummingbird programs are designed to provide the lowest-barrier access to services for otherwise unhoused individuals, offering essential support to those navigating complex challenges. Rebecca’s work at Hummingbird Valencia goes beyond providing care, it’s about meeting clients exactly where they are and helping them take the first steps toward stability and wellness. 

Comprehensive Care in Action 

Rebecca’s role encompasses a wide range of services, from on-site hepatitis C and HIV testing to connecting clients with mental health and dual diagnosis treatment programs. Working closely with UCSF’s FAST Team, she ensures that HIV-positive clients begin medication within just five days of diagnosis. For hepatitis C-positive clients, Rebecca collaborates with the Deliver Clean Team, facilitating mobile van services for ultrasounds, blood draws, and ultimately, access to a cure. 

These services reflect more than medical care, they’re about building trust. Rebecca emphasizes privacy and dignity, creating a safe space where clients feel comfortable and supported throughout their care journey. 

Advocating for Clients with Traumatic Brain Injuries 

Rebecca’s dedication doesn’t stop at testing and treatment. She’s also a champion for clients experiencing traumatic brain injuries (TBI), a significant yet often overlooked issue among unhoused populations. With 63% of her clients reporting a history of loss of consciousness, Rebecca has prioritized TBI assessment and referrals to specialized clinics for comprehensive care. 

Her efforts in this area have gained national recognition, with SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) inviting her to present her groundbreaking work at their headquarters. 

A Journey of Compassion 

Rebecca’s path into this work is as inspiring as the work itself. She began her career in 1999 with an internship at San Quentin, where she educated incarcerated individuals about hepatitis C and HIV. Since then, she has worked with at-risk youth, served as a special benefits coordinator for the HIV community at Kaiser, and taken on public health roles with San Mateo County. 

Her passion for client-centered care brought her to PRC where she helped launch a program supported by a SAMHSA grant. Rebecca built a team and created a framework that now serves hundreds of clients annually, with a strong emphasis on education around hepatitis C, HIV, STDs, and trauma-informed care. 

Overcoming Challenges with Resilience 

Rebecca’s commitment to her clients remained steadfast even during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. She continued critical testing, identified new cases of HIV and hepatitis C, and strengthened partnerships to ensure uninterrupted care. Her adaptability and determination, even as she trained new colleagues and navigated professional hurdles, reflect her deep dedication to her work. 

A Belief in Better Futures 

What sets Rebecca apart is her unshakable belief in her clients’ potential. Whether advocating for someone in a meeting, providing emotional reassurance, or connecting individuals to life-saving resources, Rebecca exemplifies the compassionate care that defines PRC. 

Hummingbird Valencia, alongside its sister program, is a lifeline for individuals seeking stability and hope. Rebecca’s story highlights the power of these programs to transform lives through advocacy, trust, and access to essential services. 

To support the work Rebecca and her team do every day, consider joining us in our mission to provide hope, health, and dignity for all. 

Donate Today

Thanks for being a part of our special year!

Posted on by Seth Abrahamson

We’re thrilled to share highlights, gatherings, and heartwarming moments that have shaped our collective journey over the past twelve months. 

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being an essential part of our community. Your support, dedication, and enthusiasm have been a driving force behind every success we’ve achieved. Enjoy our 2024 year in review! 

Residential Services department leaders gather for an inaugural and impactful staff retreat to bond and better serve our clients.
Nearly 100 community members, donors, partners, staff, and volunteers gathered for our annual Open House to learn more about our services and forge connections.

PRC joined the End the Epidemics (ETE) Coalition, a collection of brave advocates from across California, to demand budget and legislative solutions for the intersecting epidemics of HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C, STIs, and drug overdose.
PRC’s hardworking and compassionate People Experience team planned and facilitated a memorable Staff Appreciation Month to help everyone feel respected and valued at work.
PRC CEO Chuan Teng (left), Chief Clinical Officer Jessica Winterrowd (second from left), and CASRA CEO Chad Costello (second from right) spoke at a panel hosted by Manny’s on the challenges and innovations ahead for behavioral healthcare delivery in California.
PRC’s dedicated and equity-driven Workforce Development program frequently represents our organization in the community, connecting clients to internal and community resources and advancing the work of our partner organizations. 
Building the next generation of advocates and supporters is pivotal to our mission. PRC’s Development department laid the groundwork for future partnerships by gathering young professionals from across sectors to learn their thoughts on philanthropy and volunteerism. We appreciate their support!
Building the Pink Triangle each year is an important practice in rejecting hate and discrimination in our community. Our staff affirm the right for everyone to exist as their most authentic selves – and we’re working to build that future every day.
Shoutout to these staff and community members representing PRC in the San Francisco Pride Parade!
The Black Leadership Council, an initiative of PRC, works to build Black prosperity and address systemic inequities in four key policy pillars: health, wealth, education, and housing. Each year, California leaders across sectors join forces in Sacramento to advocate for budget and legislative priorities for Black communities.
We always appreciate the opportunity to come together and have some fun. Our Pride Month committee planned several fun activations and crafts throughout June to build connections within our agency. 
Sometimes the best way to engage the community in our housing and health solutions is to pound the pavement and introduce ourselves. That’s why we piloted a brand new community advocacy program, canvassing the neighborhoods around our services, introducing ourselves to businesses and residents. These conversations are meant to showcase our services and offer support to anyone affected by our behavioral health and housing crises. 
PRC leads an important body of work known as the SF HIV Frontline Organizing Group, a coalition of advocates and care workers serving clients living with HIV and AIDS. The group of more than 60 organizations comes together each fall to prepare for the open enrollment period and work collaboratively to ensure everyone in our community has the healthcare they need to survive and thrive.
We’re grateful to have a supportive community of volunteers willing to roll up their sleeves on a Saturday in service of our clients. This group beautified the backyard at one of our residential treatment sites to ensure clients have a serene space to relax and recharge.
Many of the same folks were back later in the year to revamp the kitchen and living room! Thanks to these volunteer extraordinaires, our clients have a little more peace and joy in their living spaces.
Our annual Mighty Real Fundraiser was another hit! This impactful evening of generosity and learning brought together our entire community of advocates around the theme of Imagine, Inspire, Act. PRC Board Members Colin Hartke (left) and Michael Niczyporuk (right) take a moment away from the fun to pose with CEO Chuan Teng (center left) and Mayor London Breed (center right) before hitting the dance floor!
The 32nd Annual Songs of the Season lifted our spirits to cap off an amazing 2024! Some of the Bay Area and nation’s most talented voices and performers lit up the stage with holiday themed performances for the benefit of PRC’s clients. Thanks to all for making this festive celebration an annual fixture of joy.
Our annual client winter celebration is an important opportunity to strengthen our client and staff community. The celebration saw hot lunch and hot cocoa, raffle prizes and karaoke, performances and more. This is one of our favorite events of the year because it’s all about making our clients smile!

Wishing you a warm and festive holiday season and a happy new year! 


Everyone at PRC