Media Advisory

For Immediate Release: May 15, 2025

Contact: Sandra Wellhausen
(619) 507-2077
swellhausen@sdyouthservices.org

 

San Diego Youth Services CEO Rides 700 Miles to Give Youth Experiencing Homelessness a Future

WHO:
Walter Philips, CEO of San Diego Youth Services, completing a 700-mile bike ride to raise funds and awareness for youth experiencing homelessness.

WHAT:
Media is invited to capture compelling visuals as Philips crosses the finish line of his ride from San Francisco. The event marks the culmination of his 25-year career and a major fundraising push before retirement.

WHEN:
Friday, May 16, 2025
Arrival approx. 4:00 PM (Media encouraged to arrive by 3:30 PM)

WHERE:
San Diego Youth Services – Point Loma Campus
3255 Wing Street, San Diego, CA 92110

VISUALS:

• Walter Philips arriving on bike after 700-mile journey
• Applause and celebration from staff, youth, and supporters
• Remarks from Philips at the finish line
• Finish line banner, branded signs, and crowd celebration

INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES:

• Walter Philips, retiring CEO
• Former client turned staff member, a young person who once received services from San Diego Youth Services and is now helping others
• San Diego Youth Services staff and volunteers

WHY IT MATTERS:
Youth homelessness continues to grow—impacting children as young as 12. Philips' ride highlights this urgent issue and supports critical services. His leadership has helped transform thousands of lives, including those like the young staff member now giving back.

DONATIONS & DETAILS:
More information and donation link: www.sdyouthservices.org

About San Diego Youth Services
San Diego Youth Services works to end the cycle of homelessness by moving youth into safe and stable housing, and providing safe places to live and long-term solutions for children and young adults through shelters, foster homes, community centers and housing. The organization also provides wraparound services, including the tools and training youth need to become self-sufficient and create healthy and productive paths in life. Through prevention, early intervention and treatment, San Diego Youth Services also helps youth before they need higher levels of care or experience homelessness.

The nonprofit organization serves more than 14,000 youth annually and has helped stabilize the lives of more than 823,000 youth living in San Diego County, since its founding in 1970.

To learn more, visit sdyouthservices.org.

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