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Grateful Hearts & Holiday Cheer

As we kick off our December CEO’s Corner Newsletter, I want to start by saying Thank You. Your generosity during Giving Tuesday made a meaningful impact, and I’m also grateful for the incredible support shown at our Houma Mac-N-Cheese Fest in November, which raised over $24,000 for the Gulf Coast Social Services Houma Region. Because of you, we can continue expanding access to quality care and supportive services across the communities we serve.

If you’d like to learn more about GCSS Programs, or make a tax-deductible donation at any time, please visit www.gcssla.org.

And please save the date now for our next big celebration: the 2nd Annual Houma,

Mac- N-Cheese Fest on Saturday, October 17, 2026. We’re already excited about what’s to come!

This month’s newsletter highlights the great work happening across our regions, from Houma, where Jennifer Raymond supported the Lafourche Parish Health Unit Blood Drive/Health Fair and shared GCSS resources, to New Orleans, where our team joined clients for a community resource event at Airline Skate Center and is preparing to participate in the Global Day of Service 2026: Health and Wellness Community Clinic Fair on January 17, 2026 at the Dryades YMCA. We’re also celebrating a season full of connection and teamwork across Hammond, Lake Charles, Baton Rouge, Alexandria, and Lafayette, including holiday celebrations, community outings, staff training, and moments that brought joy to the individuals and families we serve.

As we close out the year, I hope this season brings you peace, rest, and renewed hope. Thank you for all you do to live out our mission every day. From my family to yours, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year!

Visit www.gcssla.org to donate, stay connected, explore upcoming events, and celebrate more GCSS stories!

— Willie Green, MPA

President & CEO

Community in Action:

Celebrating Connection, Joy, and Togetherness

Across our regions, Gulf Coast Social Services has been proud to bring people together through meaningful community events and celebrations that reflect our mission of inclusion, engagement, and quality outcomes. From skating and bowling nights to health fairs, holiday outings, and festive celebrations, our teams have been active in creating experiences that foster connection, joy, and a sense of belonging.

Clients and community members enjoyed fun-filled activities such as skating at Airline Skate Center in Metairie, youth bowling nights in Alexandria made possible through generous community support, and festive holiday events in Lafayette that included photos with Santa, Christmas crafts, parades, and cheering on local teams. Our staff also participated in outreach opportunities, such as the Lafourche Parish Health Unit’s Blood Drive and Health Fair, strengthening partnerships and sharing information about the vital services GCSS provides.

These moments go beyond celebration; they build relationships, encourage community inclusion, and create lasting memories for the individuals and families we serve. We are grateful to our dedicated staff, community partners, and supporters who make these experiences possible and help us continue serving with heart every day.

❄️ A Season of Joy, Connection, and Celebration ❄️

This holiday season, Gulf Coast Social Services was filled with joy, laughter, and meaningful moments across our programs and regions. From festive community outings to cherished holiday traditions, December has been a wonderful reminder of the power of togetherness and the spirit of giving.

Our Baton Rouge team spread holiday cheer during their annual Christmas celebration, while participants from the Adult Day Habilitation Program enjoyed festive activities at the Eden Park Library. In Hammond, staff and clients came together for the Winter Wonderland Holiday Celebration, an afternoon filled with games, delicious food, music, and heartfelt connections.

Each event reflected the heart of Gulf Coast Social Services: creating inclusive, joyful experiences that uplift the individuals and families we serve. We are grateful for our dedicated staff, supportive community partners, and the families who allow us to be part of their lives.

From the Gulf Coast family to yours, we wish you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year filled with joy, health, and continued success.

Job Opportunities: Explore our Careers section for the latest job openings and find your next opportunity to join our team!