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Reflecting on a Year of Growth:

GCSS Achievements,

Year-End Impact, and Snowy Delights — Looking Ahead to 2025 and Beyond

Hello Gulf Coast Social Services Family!


As we share our first CEO Corner Newsletter of 2025, I want to take a moment to reflect on the year that has passed and express my deepest gratitude for your unwavering support throughout 2024. Your dedication, hard work, and compassion have allowed us to serve our clients and communities with excellence, and for that, I say Thank You.


Unfortunately, 2025 began with a heartbreaking terrorist attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans on New Year’s Day. Our hearts go out to the victims and their families, as well as to the entire Gulf Coast community. In times like these, we are reminded of the strength and resilience that define us. Together, we must continue to rise above adversity, supporting one another and standing strong in times of adversity.


I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our incredible staff and supporters across the state for their efforts during last week’s severe winter storms. Despite the challenges posed by snow and icy conditions, your commitment to caring for our clients never wavered. Our Team went above and beyond, ensuring that those who depend on us continued to receive the care and support they needed. Your dedication is nothing short of inspiring.


While the storms brought challenges, they also brought a rare and special gift to our region: SNOW!! After a difficult start to the year, it was reassuring to see so many families and communities come together to enjoy the wintry weather. From snowball fights to building snowmen, these moments remind us of the importance of finding light and happiness even in the darkest times.


As we continue to move forward into 2025, I want to take a moment to reflect on two important milestones this month: National Mentoring Month and Martin Luther King Jr. Day. These observances serve as important reminders of the power of guidance, community, and the fight for justice. Mentorship is a vital tool in shaping the lives of those we serve, and MLK Day reminds us all of the ongoing work for equality and equity in our communities. Let us all find inspiration in Dr. King’s words and continue to be mentors in the lives of those around us, helping to uplift and inspire others toward a brighter future.


Let us also carry with us the lessons learned of the past year: resilience, compassion, and the power of unity. Together, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of those we serve and create a brighter future for our communities.


Wishing you all a healthy, prosperous, and hope-filled 2025!


Thanks,

Willie Green, President/CEO

Gulf Coast Social Services

Watch on Youtube

GCSS Winter 2025 Recap:

Snow, Service, and Teamwork Across All Regions


A surprise snowstorm created an opportunity for both fun and exceptional service, with our teams going above and beyond to ensure the safety and comfort of our clients.


Many of our clients were excited to wake up to the winter weather, with some even stepping outside to enjoy the snow. Despite the challenges of staffing during the storm, our dedicated teams worked tirelessly to cover our client's needs. Program Directors, coordinators, schedulers, and Direct Support Workers (DSWs) all pitched in, many working overtime and picking up extra shifts to make sure that our clients were well cared for.


Even with the snow causing some ravel delays and havoc we saw moments of joy, with clients making snowmen, playing in the snow, and enjoying the rare weather in/for our area.


As we move forward, we are incredibly grateful for the unwavering commitment of our teams and the resilience of our clients. Here's to the continued dedication of our staff and even more moments of joy in the months ahead!



January was National Mentoring Month

Watch on Youtube

Lafayette Region Short Term Respite (STR) Youth Attend University of Louisiana Lafayette Basketball Game with Mentors


Our STR Youth recently had the exciting opportunity to attend a University of Louisiana at Lafayette basketball game with their mentors. The outing provided a fun and energetic experience, allowing the youth to bond with their mentors while promoting teamwork, discipline, and resilience.


A special thanks to our mentors for their ongoing support. The event was a success, and we look forward to more opportunities to connect, learn, and grow together.

Watch on YouTube

Lafayette Region STR Youth Enjoy "Sonic 3" Movie with Mentors


Our Lafayette region STR Youth had a blast attending the new Sonic 3 movie with their mentors! The outing provided a fun and exciting way for the youth to relax and bond with their mentors while enjoying the latest Sonic adventure.


A big thank you to our mentors for making this special outing possible and for their continued support. We look forward to more opportunities to create lasting memories together.

With your generous donations, we can continue to have lasting impact in the communities we serve. Your financial support helps fund vital programs, provide necessary resources, and create opportunities for the most vulnerable of our population.


No donation is too small – each one brings us closer to our goals.

Together, we can make a positive change. 

Together, we can make a positive change. Thank you for your generosity!

Donate Today

GCSS Important Links

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

Upcoming Events or Community Events


Houma

Feb 27, 2025: A festive Mardi Gras Ball, exclusively for our seniors! It’s sure to be a fun-filled event with music, dancing, and plenty of Mardi Gras spirit. 


Lafyette

February 15, 2025, 10am - 2pm: GCSS will have a booth at the Community Health Fair at Johnston-Hopkins Elementary School, brought to you by New Jerusalem Ministry. This free event is a great opportunity to engage with your community and learn about various health resources. Be sure to stop by our booth and connect with us!


New Orleans

February 12, 2025, 12pm - 3 pm: Join us at Raising Cane's at 5817 Airline Drive, Metairie, LA for a special Fundraiser. Mention the fundraiser at the restaurant or use code RCFUND96 for online or app orders at checkout, and Cane’s will donate 15% of Net Sales* to Gulf Coast Social Services. Come out, enjoy some great food, and support a good cause!


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