by Ondine Brooks Kuraoka

Jeanne McAlister has lots of strength to share. It’s a strength that helps others take one step at a time toward a healthier, more loving life. She founded the McAlister Institute 30 years ago, in 1977. A non-profit agency with numerous sites throughout San Diego County, the McAlister Institute’s mission is to provide high quality, low-cost substance abuse services.

Personal experience in recovery is the cornerstone of McAlister’s strength and understanding. “I’ve just celebrated 51 years clean and sober,” McAlister says. “Through my own therapy I found that I had a calling to work with others.”

McAlister’s determined spirit and vision shine through her work. The Institute, which McAlister initially funded, first opened in Oceanside and was a pioneering model. “At that time, women were not coming in for treatment because they were afraid they were going to lose their children; there was no place to put their children while they were in treatment.” McAlister received a grant which enabled her to open one of the first five programs in the nation which would allow children to remain with their mothers during treatment. Now there are many similar programs.

Another groundbreaking program at the McAlister Institute is Signs of Life, which serves the deaf, hard of hearing, and late deafened adult community of San Diego County. Substance abuse issues are addressed with cultural sensitivity. American Sign Language and advanced technology are used to ensure effective communication.

“The thing I like the most about being in this position is that I’m able to be creative,” McAlister says. “I get a lot of guidance from a power greater than myself. We are welcoming. Even if a person doesn’t fit into one of our programs, we’ll find a way to help them with another community resource. I respect that about my staff and my organization.”