Army of Saints Blog
Press Release: Army Of Saints Launches Revolutionary AI-Driven Nonprofit to End Homelessness in San Diego

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SAN DIEGO, CA - June 5, 2025 - Army Of Saints, a San Diego-based nonprofit organization, today announced the launch of the world's first AI-governed charitable organization dedicated to ending homelessness. This groundbreaking initiative combines artificial intelligence leadership with human volunteer implementation to deliver unprecedented efficiency, scalability, and impact in addressing one of society's
most persistent challenges.
Founded in 2017 as Lids Of Encouragement, the organization has reimagined nonprofit operations by installing AI agents in key leadership positions, including CEO, COO, CFO, and Program Directors. These AI leaders work in harmony with an army of compassionate human volunteers to bring resources directly to those experiencing homelessness in downtown San Diego.
"We believe it's our duty to take action and speak up when we encounter injustice," said Carlos Padial III, founder and president of the Board of Directors of Army Of Saints. "By combining cutting-edge AI technology with human compassion, we've created a revolutionary model that maximizes every donated dollar while scaling our impact exponentially. Our AI leaders never sleep, never take vacations, and make decisions
based on data rather than emotion – yet our mission remains deeply human-centered."
The organization's signature program, Lids Of Encouragement, engages community members in creating encouraging messages on container lids that accompany meals and care packages delivered directly to people experiencing homelessness. This innovative approach ensures that physical needs are met alongside emotional and psychological support.
Army Of Saints has ambitious plans to scale from its current $65,000 annual budget to over $10 million within five years. This growth will be fueled by AI-optimized grant applications, corporate partnerships, and innovative fundraising events, including an annual gala charity poker pageant, and community-wide Cajun cookouts. The organization aims to secure bids for transitional housing projects and long-term
affordable housing developments through the San Diego Housing Commission and HUD, with AI systems managing the complex application and compliance processes with unprecedented efficiency.
"We're not just applying AI to nonprofit management – we're reimagining what's possible when artificial intelligence and human compassion work together," added Carlos Padial III. "Our AI agents handle the complex operational challenges while our human volunteers deliver the personal connection that makes our work transformative."
Army Of Saints invites individuals, businesses, and other organizations to join this revolutionary approach to ending homelessness. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, donation options, or partnership possibilities, visit www.armyofsaints.org.
About Army Of Saints
Army Of Saints (DBA Lids Of Encouragement) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to uniquely encouraging those in need through innovative programs that combine AI governance with human implementation. Founded in 2017, the organization brings care packages, meals, and encouragement directly to people experiencing homelessness in downtown San Diego, while developing long-term solutions through
affordable housing initiatives.
Media Contact
Carlos Padial III
Founder and President, Board of Directors
619-379-7636
info@armyofsaints.org
www.armyofsaints.org

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE** Date: February 18th, 2025 Lids of Encouragement Partners with APEX Accelerator to Drive Innovation and Secure Federal Contracts **San Diego, CA** – Lids of Encouragement, a dedicated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on ending street homelessness for vulnerable populations, is thrilled to announce its new partnership with the APEX Accelerator. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for Lids of Encouragement as we aim to secure federal contracts in 2025 to further support our mission. The APEX Accelerator, formerly known as the Procurement Technical Assistance Program (PTAP), is poised to empower both existing and new businesses by fostering innovation and establishing resilient supply chains within the defense industrial base. Under the management of the Department of Defense Office of Small Business Programs, the APEX Accelerator helps businesses navigate and participate in government contracting opportunities. In alignment with our goals, this partnership provides Lids of Encouragement with access to crucial education, training, and resources necessary for engaging effectively in federal, state, and local government contracts. As we strive to enhance our programs and services for those in need, the support from the APEX Accelerator will be instrumental in broadening our capabilities. “This partnership represents a new chapter for Lids of Encouragement,” said Mr. Padial, founder of Lids of Encouragement. “By joining forces with the APEX Accelerator, we can amplify our outreach and create even more impactful initiatives for the homeless community in San Diego and beyond. We are excited to leverage their expertise to navigate the complexities of federal contracting.” As the APEX Accelerator transitions from PTAP, it remains committed to providing exceptional support to local nonprofits and businesses. With a new branding approach, APEX Accelerators signify their dedication to driving innovation and collaboration across sectors. With this strategic partnership, Lids of Encouragement aims to enhance its initiatives and continue its mission to uniquely encourage those in need. We look forward to working alongside the APEX Accelerator to build capacity and achieve sustainable success in securing federal contracts. **About Lids of Encouragement** Founded in 2017 and based in downtown San Diego, Lids of Encouragement is a volunteer-run nonprofit organization dedicated to ending street homelessness and supporting the most vulnerable populations. Our mission is to bring hope and encouragement to those in need through community-driven initiatives such as meal sealing, care packages, and hygiene kits, while emphasizing leadership with lived experience in homelessness. **For more information about Lids of Encouragement, please visit LidsofEncouragement.org .** **About APEX Accelerator** The APEX Accelerator serves businesses in the San Diego, Orange, and Imperial counties, providing essential support for navigating government contracting. The program aims to strengthen the defense industrial base and encourage innovation through diverse supply chains and collaboration. Learn more at [ apexsocal.org ] ### END ### For further inquiries or media requests, please contact us at the details provided above.