Media Advisory

For immediate release: April 23, 2025
Contact: Sandra Wellhausen
(619) 507-2077
swellhausen@sdyouthservices.org

 

San Diego Youth Services Welcomes Jonathan Castillo as New Chief Executive Officer

As a passionate advocate for marginalized and homeless communities, Castillo brings more than 16 years of leadership experience to guide San Diego Youth Services into its next chapter.

San Diego, Calif (April 23, 2025) - San Diego Youth Services welcomes Jonathan Castillo as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective July 1. Castillo is replacing Chief Executive Officer Walter Philips who is retiring on June 30, after 25 years with the organization.

Castillo is currently the Chief Regional Officer for PATH, where he drives the operations and design of housing and supportive services for individuals experiencing homelessness, managing a $52 million budget across three counties.

“I am thrilled to join San Diego Youth Services as the organization’s next CEO and build upon Walter’s legacy to create a better future for the next generation,” said Castillo. “San Diego Youth Services’ comprehensive and holistic service approach to ending youth homelessness is not only commendable but also essential to creating a world where all youth have opportunities to achieve their goals and make their dreams a reality.”

Jonathan’s drive and passion are fueled by a need to serve those who are marginalized and unable to advocate for themselves. He strives to identify and fill gaps within communities by expanding programs that respond to their needs.

“I am confident that Jonathan will lead San Diego Youth Services successfully into the future,” said San Diego Youth Services’ current CEO Walter Philips. “He is a champion for ending homelessness and creating a more just and compassionate community.”

Jonathan also brings a deep understanding that supporting the whole youth—through early, personalized, and responsive care—is essential to lasting impact. He brings a deep understanding of how system factors impact social determinants of health, which are critical to breaking the generational cycle of inequity.

“Jonathan is a strategic leader with a strong vision to expand accessible housing and provide services for those in need, so that they can live independent and productive lives,” said San Diego Youth Services Board Chair Tim Ducker. “His leadership experience and community relationships will help us strengthen and expand services that center the needs, experiences and voices of our youth.”

Jonathan also brings the kind of leadership that gives donors and partners confidence.

“He understands the importance of sustainability, innovation, and outcomes,” said San Diego Youth Foundation Board Chair Heather Stewart. “And he’s committed to strengthening the systems and community to ensure our programs not only grow, but continue to deliver real, lasting impact for San Diego's youth.”

 

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 through shelters, foster homes, community centers and housing. The organization also provides wraparound services, including workforce development programs and 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.

San Diego Youth Foundation is the philanthropic arm of San Diego Youth Services.

To learn more, visit sdyouthservices.org.

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