About Venture Life Program
Built on experience, driven by purpose
Our Background
Built from real-world experience
Venture Life Program was built from decades of hands-on experience supporting individuals in the developmental disability community.
Our Purpose
Supporting independence through community
Everything we do is guided by values that shape each program and interaction:
Independence
Community integration
Inclusivity
Real-world engagement
Personal growth
What Sets Us Apart
A different kind of program, by design
While many programs are facility-based and routine-driven, our focus is on creating real-life experiences that support independence, connection, and personal growth.
Every part of Venture Life Program is intentionally designed to help participants build a life they’re excited to be part of.
Real-world experiences, not facility-based routines
Led by experienced professionals, not just staff
Multiple programs working together as one experience
Opportunities most programs don’t offer
Aligned with the San Diego Regional Center Self-Determination Program
Programs designed for independence, not just supervision
The Founders
Built by people who live this work
John Afshari
As the founder of SoCal Special Needs Services, he has worked across a wide range of environments including inclusion coordination at the YMCA, behavior-focused day programs, youth mentoring, vocational development, and long-term one-on-one coaching relationships. His connection to the community runs deep.
John brings a unique level of energy and real-world experience into every program. With a background as a college athlete, stand-up paddleboard racer, surf instructor, snowboarder, and musician, he creates experiences that go beyond traditional settings. His certifications and training allow him to safely guide participants in environments like the ocean, mountains, and community spaces where meaningful growth happens.
His philosophy is simple. Empowerment and motivation are not optional. They are the foundation of everything.
At Venture Life Program, John leads Adventure Club, Saturday Surfers, and Fitness & Wellness, and co-leads Rhythm and Expression.
Experience & Certifications:
- 20 years in disability services
- 20 years in music (guitar)
- Youth mentoring
- Paddle-Fit certified
- Adaptive surfing
- Life coaching
- Vocational development
- CPR & First Aid
Experience & Certifications:
- Licensed OTR/L
- Adaptive sailing
- Violin and guitar musician
- Adaptive recreation
- Yoga instruction
- Early intervention
- Common Sense Parenting
- “Womb to tomb” care approach
Christina Hutchens
Beyond her professional background, Christina brings lived experience as a parent navigating complex medical needs. As a mother of two daughters with congenital heart conditions, she understands firsthand the challenges, decisions, and emotions families face. This perspective shapes the empathy and care she brings into her work.
Her work extends beyond traditional therapy. She is a trained parenting educator, adaptive recreation leader, yoga instructor, and lifelong musician. She believes meaningful support comes from creating environments where individuals can fully engage, grow, and feel connected.
Families & Members
What a different kind
of program feels like
John helps my son live a fun and meaningful life.
Get Started
Let’s find the right fit for your loved one
Every family's situation is different. Tell us about your loved one and we'll help figure out which programs are the right fit and how to fund them through SDP.