Healing men, healing the world.
In community Breakthrough offers proven tools and resources to men who are hurting, stuck, or longing for more.
Because everyone deserves a fulfilling life
Men aren’t broken. Men don’t need fixing. Men need community.
From an early age, men are taught to handle everything alone - to tough it out, stay independent, and avoid asking for help. Self-sufficiency matters, but the cultural pressure to “do it all yourself” often leads to something far more damaging: isolation.
Isolation isn’t the same as solitude. Many men feel alone even while surrounded by family, coworkers, and friends. And that quiet isolation can lead to depression, reactive behavior, and a persistent sense that life is falling short.
For 37 years, Breakthrough has been providing men with what they’re missing most: real community. In connection with other men, we find solutions, move through challenges, and meet life head-on. Men are built for friendship, and even simple camaraderie can create profound transformation.
As one graduate puts it, “Meaningful friendships are an unavoidable byproduct of Breakthrough.”
Breakthrough Men’s Community empowers men across Monterey County to heal emotional wounds, build resilience, and foster meaningful connection through transformational workshops. In 2024, 53 men participated in the Breakthrough Workshop, 48 of whom were Monterey County residents—with representation from Salinas (13), Monterey (13), Pacific Grove (6), Seaside (6), Carmel Valley (4), Marina (4), Carmel-by-the-Sea (1), and Pebble Beach (1). Of all participants, 45 received tuition assistance, totaling $128,775 in financial support—underscoring our commitment to accessibility. Our work addresses key behavioral health issues in men, including isolation, emotional suppression, and intergenerational trauma. Participants emerge with tools to become more emotionally grounded fathers, partners, and community members. The ripple effects are significant—strengthening families, improving relationships, and enhancing community wellbeing. Our program reaches across socioeconomic and geographic lines to offer deep personal transformation. Breakthrough is proud to be a trusted and impactful resource for healing and growth throughout Monterey County.
Well, the biggest [way life is different] is I do have a lot of that peace now. There’s all the same stresses, if not more. There’s a lot more chaos in my life. But I can give myself, be my own calm in that storm, and give myself peace. And that’s been a cool skill set to be given. And I wish I had it 20, 40 years earlier, but it’s great to have it now.
- Marcus Mateus, Monterey
