About AJP
We empower survivors of human trafficking and sexual exploitation by providing long-term housing and a comprehensive variety of support services with an emphasis on peer leadership.
Empowering Survivors
OUR MISSION
Learn the history of AJPOur Story
Compelled by the immense scale of human trafficking in San Diego and the limited resources available to survivors, our co-founders incorporated the Alabaster Jar Project. The mission was to provide housing and resources for survivors of human trafficking and sexual exploitation.
What began as a ministry of a local church soon evolved into a standalone nonprofit 501(c)3 in 2013, receiving tax exempt status in July of 2014. Alabaster Jar Project is now comprised of Grace House, a long-term residential program; the Resource Center, a drop-in center that provides clothing, toiletries, referrals, emotional, educational and vocational development programs; and Survivor-led Peer Support Groups.
Support Our Work
Our Values
Begin with Grace
We always assume the best in others and begin with trust not suspicion.
Choose Excellence
We do everything with professionalism, collaboration and accountability.
Cultivate Trust
We treat others how we would want to be treated.
Champion Wellness
We prioritize our physical, emotional and spiritual health and growth.
Celebrate Together
We celebrate one another and find joy in our successes.
Empower Integrity
We are committed to healthy relationships through honest communication even when it is difficult.
Why the Name Alabaster Jar Project?
There is a parable of a woman who carried an alabaster jar filled with costly perfume. She could have saved it, using only a little at a time, but instead she chose to break it open and pour it all out. In that moment, her gift was final and complete. It was an offering of immeasurable value that could not be undone or taken back.
This parable is the heart behind our name. At Alabaster Jar Project, we believe every survivor carries a kind of “jar” filled with unique gifts, experiences, and value. For many, those gifts have been hidden by pain and hardship. But when they are ready, we see survivors break open their own alabaster jar, not by losing something but by choosing to give back and pour into others.
Again and again, we watch women turn their healing into hope for others. Graduates of our program step into roles as counselors, nurses, peer mentors, and group leaders in recovery communities. Each time they give of themselves, they embody the spirit of the alabaster jar by offering what is most precious to bring healing, dignity, and purpose to others.
“My Alabaster Jar is bringing all of who I am ... a person who can sit next to a survivor, listen, connect to their stories, empathize, and then walk with them.”
DR. BRENDA NAVARRETE - FORMER AJP PROGRAM DIRECTOR
“My Alabaster Jar is just to serve and to help. I had time so I didn't want the gifts I had to be stagnant”
RON OBARD - VOLUNTEER“ My Alabaster Jar is being the compassionate person that can be there to listen.”
BRENDA WRIGHT - VOLUNTEERWhat is Your Alabaster Jar?
Rooted in Faith &
Committed to Compassion
Our organization was born out of The Church of Rancho Bernardo and soon after became an independent 501(c)(3). We continue to honor our faith roots by recognizing that healing is a journey of the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.
Founded in faith, we hold to the values of love, service, and restoration. Many of our staff are Christian and live out their faith through the way they serve, yet our programs welcome all. We believe faith can play a vital role in healing, and we provide spiritual support only at the level each participant desires.
Our commitment is to walk alongside every individual with compassion, dignity, and respect, honoring each unique path toward wholeness.
