JILLIAN SMATH, MSW
CEO
“As we celebrate International Women’s Day, words alone cannot express the gratitude I feel each day for the selfless support from everyone at the Village. In addition to the women featured, there are many more who make our mission possible. Our foster mothers, respite staff, Next Steps and Programs Services teams, and administrative staff—without a doubt, they are all made up of AMAZING women who make the Village a sanctuary built on love and caring, and a place where our children thrive. For this, I am grateful beyond measure.”
BENDRA CASENEUVE
Director of Human Resources
“We recently had an eight-year-old little girl come to the Village. She had been homeless, and her hair was matted, and she would not allow anyone to get near her. I purchased some supplies and reassured her that I had a daughter and that I would make her hair beautiful. It took five hours, but she allowed me to wash and braid her hair. The smiles and gratitude she shared were wonderful—I know that I have a purpose here!”
SIMONE GIBSON, MS, CWCM
Program Director
“To see how many children who come through our doors so broken, fearful, and discouraged… leaving whole, confident, and encouraged about life is highly rewarding! We have some of the most loving and caring leaders, staff, and foster parents, without a doubt.”
DAWN SEAY
Chief Development Officer
“I have adult children, and seven years ago I became a mentor to one of our girls who had just graduated from high school and was entering college. Today she is working as an RN in New Orleans with plans to become a physician assistant. She is my ‘bonus daughter,’ and I could not be prouder of the young woman she is developing into!”
SANDRA WALLACE
Chief Operating Officer
“What stands out the most to me is seeing the children now as young adults living life and doing very well. One of our young adults sent me a text message thanking me for believing in him when he was 12 years old. Seeing his potential has been wonderful, and to continue to see and support him through his life is rewarding.”
FRAN WEBER
Director of Finance
“It is great to see how our children grow up and work towards fulfilling their dreams. A moment that stood out for me was when one of our young adults in the Next Steps program wanted to be a realtor and worked to get his license. He then purchased his first home, and I was able to donate some furniture to help him get set up. We are an SOS family, and it is the best feeling—one of pride—to see dreams come to life.”
KRISTA VECCHIONE
Program Therapist Supervisor
“Working at SOS allows me to witness and admire the true resilience in children. Every day I am part of their strength, courage, and hope. They are my heroes.”
