Director Josie Casarrubias

Tell us a little bit about what you do at the Mission.

As Program Manager for many years, I was fully responsible for the operation of Home Again (RMA SFV's family shelter). I supervised the staff onsite: case managers, intake coordinators, shelter staff, chef, and volunteer coordinator. Recently, I took over as Director of the entire Mission.

Did you have previous experience in this field?

Immediately before coming to the Mission, I was working for a government program called ORR, Office of Refugee Resettlement, through an organization called Urban Strategies, and we served unaccompanied minors until we found them places to stay.

I was also the Parent Center Director & Homeless Liaison for Los Angeles Unified School District. That's where I did a lot of community outreach. Through that role, I really understood a lot of the importance of knowing your community and the resources available to really help people. The families that I worked with then are some of the same families I'm helping now.

It sounds like you've always gravitated towards helping people, is there a reason for that?

I really believe it's my ministry, my calling. I've tried other jobs, but I've always been drawn to positions that involve helping, teaching, building people up.

I've come from a broken family, I've had an abusive relationship, I was a very young mom, but when I encountered God, He really transformed my life. I felt that was the beginning of me living within His purpose and plan for me. I've seen God restore my life when I didn't think I was worthy. It's why I want to help people. It's from a place of abundance because of how much God has given me, how gracious He's been with me.

You've always lived in the San Fernando Valley. That must be helpful to build and engage the community there.

Oh, it's so helpful. I've had the opportunity to tap into so many different areas within the Valley, in the different positions God has allowed me to be in. It's not uncommon to bump into someone who I know from an outreach or event, or families I used to help.

I'm very honored and very humbled by some of the recognitions and invitations I've received. Last year, my City Council person and City Hall recognized me as Pioneer Woman of The Year for Homeless Services. I've also been invited to share the Mission and our message on Spanish Christian radio. I'm honored. I really am.

What's the best part of your job?

The best part of my job is when I get to pour into others, in any capacity. Whether it's staff, to further equip them to serve families better, or when I get to counsel a family - to pour into them and shed light on some of the things that are important and relevant to help them continue to move forward. That's when I'm in my golden place: when I can teach others, when I can raise others up, when I can edify others.

I understand that the memories and experiences that are created here for the men, women and children will stay with them forever. I strive, and the team strives, to leave a good memory. That's how we operate: to be kind, to be respectful, to remember that the children will remember this place as a time in their life.

What do you wish people knew about the Mission?

That here, at both our locations, miraculous and unplanned things happen every day, in a good way. It's a motto for us: If we need something for a family or the Mission, all we have to do, I kid you not, is pray. God shows up and He surprises us. God goes above and behind. Miracles happen here every day.