CEO and President Gary Danielsen: January Updates

It is with great pleasure that I introduce Rachel Castillo as LSG’s new Director of Operations. In this capacity, Rachel will oversee the agency’s Quality Assurance and Risk Management programs, new program initiatives, communication functions and the implementation of the Strategic Plan. She will also aid in the integration of policies and procedures as it pertains to the agency as a whole. Rachel comes to LSG from serving for many years with the Salvation Army in Boston, New York, and Georgia, where she served as the State Director of Social Services. Rachel and her husband Noe have three children (ages 7, 9, and 17) and live in Marietta. During the last few months, the state demonstrated a reluctance to support essential services to refugees by holding back federal funds. This affected all agencies helping refugees, including LSG. After a quickly developed advocacy campaign emerged, the state officials followed thorough in honoring the contracts (that were set to start October 1) in late December. However, it is feared by many that there are some who are working to prevent not only illegal immigrants but legal immigrants, such as refugees, from coming to Georgia. Many in our community underestimate the importance, value, and contributions refugees bring to our community. We will keep you posted as events unfold.

In other LSG news, the Christmas Angel Tree campaign resulted in over 1,500 gifts with a value of over $45,000 for children, families, and individuals throughout the state. These donations were made by generous and compassionate members of congregations and the community who desired to help each person feel valued and cared for during the Christmas season. To those who participated, THANK YOU!

“…as you have done it to the least of these, who are members of my family, you have done it also to me.”

To God be the glory,

Gary