Home Start, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to child abuse prevention and providing evidence-based family strengthening services, has introduced Joe Buehrle as its new Chief Executive Officer. The transition marks an important milestone for the organization as it continues to expand its impact on vulnerable children and families throughout San Diego County.
Buehrle joins Home Start as an accomplished nonprofit executive with more than two decades of experience leading systems-change initiatives across child abuse prevention, social justice, and community health. Prior to stepping into his new role, Buehrle served as the Vice President of Strategy and Development at SAY San Diego, where he championed a $30 million organizational budget and played a central role in shaping the agency’s strategic direction. His leadership included guiding agency-wide equity and inclusion initiatives, securing millions in new multi-year government contracts, and cultivating significant private philanthropic support.
In addition to his executive leadership, Buehrle has been deeply involved in regional and statewide efforts to support families and advance social equity. He is the founding Board Chair of Zero8Hundred, a regional military transition support network that connects service members and veterans with vital community resources during their transition to civilian life.
He also previously chaired the San Diego Nonprofit Association, where he promoted and advocated for the needs of the nonprofit sector in the region. Over the years, Buehrle has held numerous leadership and advisory positions dedicated to family support, prevention, and social equity, further demonstrating his commitment to strengthening community systems and improving outcomes for children and families.
As the new CEO of Home Start, Buehrle brings a widely recognized reputation for an authentic, inclusive leadership style and visionary approach to nonprofit management. He is committed to driving systemic change that centers on healing, belonging, and opportunity for the most vulnerable populations.
Buehrle’s new position signals a new era of growth for Home Start. He has already completed an agency-wide listening tour to meet all staff and hear their insights and suggestions, officially met and addressed the Home Start community of supporters at the organizations’ annual Hallo-Wine Fall Festival in October, spearheaded Home Start’s annual Walk & Rally in November in recognition of Youth Homelessness Outreach, Prevention, and Education Month, and has dived into a comprehensive strategic planning initiative in partnership the Board Of Directors. Emerging priorities include stewarding an organizational culture of inclusion and trust, increasing visibility and reach, leveraging cutting edge technology, and investing in strong collaborative partnerships.
Founded 53 years ago, Home Start provides county-wide services designed to ensure the safety and resiliency of children by strengthening the families and communities in which they live. From housing and behavioral health programs to home visitation, family support, and emergency assistance, Home Start works to build stable, nurturing environments. Last year, the organization served more than 15,000 San Diegans in need of services.
Buehrle has held numerous leadership and advisory positions dedicated to family support, prevention, and social equity.
