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Wellness, Empowerment, Liberation and Love
in the Tenderloin
| | September/October 2026 Newsletter | | |
Dear Friends,
A couple weeks ago, our karaoke session ended with the entire room cheering, singing and waving their arms as Prince's "Purple Rain" filled the air. One of our participants had invited another to harmonize with him — two people, and then a whole room, made stronger because of connection.
It reminded me of a humbling experience I had soon after I founded The Healing WELL eleven years ago. In one of our support groups, a neighbor talked nearly non-stop through much of the meeting. Only a few people spoke; and, by my standards, there was no great wisdom shared. I registered the session as a "failure." So I was shocked when one of the participants told me afterward: "That was one of the best meetings I've ever attended. I see that man everywhere. Everyone just tries to get him to shut up. This was the first time I saw him being heard. Seeing that reminded me that The Healing WELL is a safe space for me, too." What healed that room wasn't anything that was said. It was that someone finally got to be heard — and that everyone else got to watch it happen.
Whether it's a karaoke mic, a folding chair in a circle, or a walk together through the Botanical Gardens, we keep discovering the same thing: connection is the medicine. Yes, we help people develop and practice skills to help them cope with stress. We support one another as they deepen their self-awareness so they can make healthy choices in their lives. We create opportunities for people to share their talents. But what's foundational to us is the spirit of our space — where a man who spends his days being told to be quiet gets to talk, and be heard, and remind someone else that they belong there too. Your support is what makes this possible, and we are profoundly grateful.
Sincerely,
Kathy Curran, Director
P.S. Please join our community for The Power of the Second Act, Sunday, October 4th. The film we're showing, "Figaro Up, Figaro Down," is terrific — and won the Audience Award at the film festival. Our participant Tim, featured in the documentary, will sing for us right after the screening.
| | Amidst the special events, meals, food distribution, and 1x1 sessions we provide, our daily wellness sessions remain our cornerstone. From yoga, meditation, and art to improv, writing, drum circles, recovery, and women's support groups and more — we offer something for everyone's personal healing and growth. Join us! | | For days, Andre marinated and barbecued meat for our annual summer BBQ Ribs Feast. With sides of beans, cornbread, salad, and cookies, 75 neighbors enjoyed a sit-down meal served by our Healing WELL Friends and the Elks Club, with another 50 "take-outs." This community feast manifests generosity and love. | | The room buzzed and the tiles clacked! Special thanks to Andrew Keeler — aka 'Mr. Mah Jong' — for volunteering to teach and lead this beloved game. In partnership with our neighbor Glide, we're proud to offer this new weekly session, answering neighbors' wish to build community around the table. | | A bow of gratitude to Krista, one of our Healing WELL Friends, who hosted a Mah Jong fundraiser at her beautiful home. Along with some healthy competition, guests enjoyed scrumptious snacks, a silent auction, and learning about our community. Email Kathy if you’re interested in hosting an event like this! | | Last month, we celebrated the graduation of our 8-week peer-to-peer mental health program with NAMI. Participants focused on building coping skills and supporting one another. Congratulations to all, especially the two graduates who were nominated to join the facilitation training program! | | Help us fill the the Roxie Theater on Sunday afternoon, October 4th. Join us for “The Power of the Second Act.” One of our participants, Tim Blevins, (above) is featured in the 2026 SF Film Festival “Audience Award” winner, Figaro Up, Figaro Down. You can reserve a seat through this link. | | Hispanic Heritage Celebration | |
Spanish karaoke, Loteria, movies, dance and excursions - the Healing WELL is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with an array of events each week. We honor the history, culture and contributions of our neighbors who hail from Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Spain. In community we grow!
| | In close partnership with our 300 Ellis Block neighbors, especially Glide and YWAM, The Healing WELL is proud to help lead our 'Good Neighbor Nights.' Each evening, we're opening our doors so housed and unhoused neighbors alike can enjoy fun activities together. Join us at The Healing WELL on Tuesdays for Movie Nights! | | |
Please consider making an on-line donation to The Healing WELL. Checks addressed to "The Healing WELL/Community Initiatives" are also welcome. Please mail them to:
The Healing WELL
PO Box 640348
San Francisco, CA 94164
ALL DONATIONS ARE TAX-DEDUCTIBLE.
| | The Healing WELL is a fiscally-sponsored project of Community Initiatives (EIN: 94-3255070.) | | | | |
