About Ford Street Project
Since 1974, we have been Mendocino County's cornerstone for recovery, shelter, and food assistance — helping our neighbors rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
Our History
Ford Street Project was founded in 1974 in Ukiah, California, with a simple but powerful mission: to assist the addicted and homeless people of Mendocino County. What began as a small residential recovery program has grown into a comprehensive continuum of care serving thousands of community members each year.
Over five decades, we have expanded our services to meet the evolving needs of our community — adding emergency shelter for families, a community food bank, transitional and permanent housing, and a range of outpatient and aftercare services. Through every chapter of our growth, our commitment to compassionate, evidence-based care has remained constant.
Today, Ford Street Project is recognized as one of Mendocino County's most trusted nonprofits, honored with the California Nonprofit of the Year award and celebrating 25 years of the Ukiah Recovery Center. We are proud of how far we have come — and even more committed to the work ahead.
Our History
Started as Mendocino Alcohol Project
Ford Street Project opens its doors in Ukiah, CA as the Mendocino Alcohol Project, offering residential recovery services.
Alcohol & Other Drugs Residential Treatment
Began providing ongoing Alcohol and Other Drugs Residential Treatment services to the community.
Non-Profit Status
Achieved Non-Profit Status under the IRS Code 501(c)(3).
Adopted the Name Ford Street Project
Officially adopted the name Ford Street Project and began providing Emergency Housing and Transitional Housing.
Permanent Housing
Began providing Permanent Housing. Purchased Garden Court with HOME Grant.
Outpatient Treatment
Began providing Alcohol and Other Drugs Outpatient Treatment services.
Community Food Bank
Ford Street Project and the Ukiah Community Center combined efforts. Began providing a Community Food Bank (originally established 1986).
Ukiah Recovery Center
Began providing a Sober Living Environment. The Ukiah Recovery Center, a Ford Street Project, was established.
California Nonprofit of the Year
Named 2018 California Nonprofit of the Year by Assemblymember Jim Wood.
Partnership Health Care
Became a contracted provider of Partnership Health Care and a Drug Medi-Cal provider.
California Woman Making Herstory
Executive Director Jacqueline Williams named 2023 California Woman Making Herstory by Assemblymember Jim Wood.
Expansion Complete
Community Food Bank Remodel Complete. Ukiah Recovery Center Expansion Complete — Treatment Pavilion and Sober Living Environment.
Mission & Values
"To assist the addicted and homeless people of Mendocino County by providing a continuum of care that promotes recovery, stability, and self-sufficiency."
Compassion
We meet every person where they are, without judgment, and walk alongside them on their journey toward healing.
Dignity
Every individual deserves to be treated with respect. We honor the inherent worth of every person we serve.
Community
We believe recovery and stability happen in relationship. We build connections that strengthen individuals and the broader community.
Accountability
We are responsible stewards of the trust placed in us by our clients, donors, and the community we serve.
Board of Directors
Earl has served as a member of our board since 2016 and currently serves as our Board President.
Frank has served as a member of our board since 2023 and currently serves as our Board Vice-President.
Colleen has served as a member of our board since 2007 and currently serves as our Board Secretary.
Stephanie has served as a member of our board since 2024 and currently serves as our Board Treasurer.
Leslie has served as a member of our board since 2016.
Thomas has served as a member of our board since 2023.
David has served as a member of our board since 2025.
Phyllis served as a member of our board since 1993. Member Emeritus 2024.
Jerry Cardoza (1947–2025) served as a member of our board since 2005 as our Board President and also as our Vice-President. In Memoriam 2025.
Our Founders
Ford Street Project was built on the vision and dedication of individuals who believed every person deserves a chance at recovery and stability. We honor those who laid the foundation for the work we carry forward today.
Portrait by local artist Lonnie Lopez
Join Us in Making a Difference
Whether you need support or want to give it, Ford Street Project is here for you.