Episode Summary: Paul Ward visits Mesa in Ojai, California—a 10-acre citrus farm that’s home to an innovative community tackling youth homelessness. Guest Dan Parziale, co-founder of Mesa, explains how this transitional housing project supports vulnerable 18–24 year olds with holistic services, beautiful tiny homes, and a deep sense of community. Discover how Mesa is changing lives by replacing shelters with opportunity, healing, and hope.
⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction Paul introduces Dan Parziale and the mission behind Mesa Farm.
00:30 – What is Mesa? Dan explains how Mesa began and what the 10-acre farm provides for its young adult residents.
01:41 – Who Mesa Serves A look at Mesa’s participants—many experiencing or at risk of homelessness—and how they are referred.
02:44 – A Spirit of Connection Why collaboration, beauty, and community are essential parts of Mesa’s model.
03:39 – It Takes a Village Dan shares how community members—from realtors to volunteers—play an active role in residents’ success.
04:33 – What’s Required of Residents Minimal mandatory activities, but plenty of engaging opportunities including filmmaking and natural building.
05:26 – Film, Farming & Pizza Ovens Hands-on learning in the arts and agriculture, from shooting short films to selling tangerines.
06:28 – Rethinking Housing Environments Why Mesa is beautiful by design—and how that impacts healing and outcomes.
07:35 – Early Transitions & Support Mesa’s first residents have already started moving out, with rental assistance for the next stage of life.
08:34 – Why Mesa Was Created Dan and co-founder Kyle Thompson wanted to flip the script on how we support at-risk youth.
09:58 – Breaking the Poverty Trap How Mesa’s design philosophy focuses on dignity, restoration, and upward mobility.
11:00 – How Mesa is Funded Mesa began with a state grant and continues through a mix of government and private support.
11:29 – Replicating the Model Mesa’s approach can—and should—be expanded to other communities facing youth homelessness.
12:20 – Meaning Behind the Name “Mesa” A table to gather at. A plateau to launch from.
13:03 – Dan’s Background From Ojai to LA to Haiti—Dan’s unique journey to nonprofit leadership.
14:30 – Preventing Lifelong Homelessness Mesa works upstream to catch youth before long-term homelessness becomes a cycle.
15:51 – The Financial & Human Cost Investing early in young people saves resources—and lives—down the line.
16:50 – A Smarter Approach to Homelessness Prevention, beauty, and opportunity drive lasting impact.
18:35 – Volunteering at Mesa Gardening, cooking, teaching art—Mesa thrives on community support.
19:29 – The Joy of This Work Dan reflects on the honor and hope that comes from working with young adults at a turning point.
20:35 – Remembering Who You Are Helping youth reconnect with their identity and potential.
21:20 – Inside the Tiny Homes Tour the beautifully furnished 270 sq ft homes with mountain views, art, and personalized music.
23:16 – Why Design & Dignity Matter Personalized homes help participants feel welcome, safe, and valued.
24:48 – Why Private Space Matters Tiny homes provide dignity and safety that communal shelters can’t.
25:09 – How to Get Involved Mesa is building a volunteer portal and welcomes people to share their skills and passions.
26:29 – Website & Social Media
- 🌐 www.mesafarm.org
- 📷 Instagram: @mesafarm
- 👍 Facebook: Mesa Farm
27:08 – Final Thoughts Dan shares why Mesa’s model is exciting, replicable, and ready for a broader movement.
📢 Related Episodes: One Vet at a Time: Inside the Vince Street Veterans House with Angel Echeverria Unveiling Humanity through Compassion, Hope and a Costume
👉Contact Paul Ward: homeandranch.com p. 805-479-5004 e. paul@homeandranchteam.com
📢 Thank You to Our Sponsor: Opus Escrow — making this episode possible.
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22 Min.