Zachary Ginder: Director, Alegria-Zahn
Zachary Ginder comes to the Salvation Army with over ten years experience in the health and human services field. Zachary began his professional career working in the field of chronic pain management and somatic psychology. After working in the medical field for six years, Zachary pursued his Masters in Social Work from the University of Southern California. Zachary has since dedicated his professional and volunteer efforts towards working with the homeless populations of Los Angeles County through direct practice, administration, and by building community awareness. Zachary frequently guest lectures on topics of social justice, homeless services and human development at universities and other organizations throughout Los Angeles County.
Ana Aguirre: Zahn Program Director
Ana Aguirre has over 14 years of service with The Salvation Army. Working her way through various programs and gaining expertise in program management as she went, Ana became the Program Director at Booth Memorial Center (Group home for teen girls) in 2003. In 2005, after having a successful venture at Booth Memorial, Ana moved to assist in another area of interest at The Salvation Army Bell Shelter. While working at Bell Shelter, Ana became a Certified Alcoholism and other Drug Addictions Recovery Specialist (CAARR/CAS). In 2006, Ana moved into her current role as Program Director at Zahn Emergency Family Shelter. At Zahn, she has taken the program to new heights. Under Ana’s guidance, Zahn is now viewed as a bench mark family shelter in Los Angeles County.
Matthew Kunz: Business Manager
Matthew Kunz began his career with The Salvation Army in 2001 working as a Contracts Analyst in the Finance Department. During that time he also attended evening classes at California State University Los Angeles, earning an MBA in 2004. In 2005 Matthew accepted the position of Business Manager at The Salvation Army Harbor Light Center located on Skid Row, where he helped to streamline costs while working to improve the rehabilitation program. In 2007 Matthew brought his talents to The Salvation Army Alegria to support the vision and goals of caring for families with special needs.
Julie Lewis: Community Care Coordinator
Julie Lewis has more than 22 years of service with The Salvation Army in various managerial positions, such as supervisor of Safe Harbor, a women’s alcohol & drug program located in downtown Los Angeles. Currently Julie holds the position of Community Care Coordinator at The Salvation Army Alegria. Julie comes to the Salvation Army Alegria with an expertise in Substance Abuse Counseling and has received and attended numerous training and certifications in areas related to psycho-social issues surrounding homelessness. It is a goal and passion of Julie’s to help make a difference and serve those less fortunate, who need a warm welcome and a big smile.
Catherine Loquai: Operations Manager
Growing up in France, and her subsequent world travels, have led Catherine to a deep interest in the culinary arts. After 10 years of working in the food industry and graduating from the Cordon Bleu, Catherine brought her passion for fresh and nutritious ingredients to the Alegria food services program in 2005. Catherine has recently expanded her duties to include all aspects of operations.
Samantha Noland: Registered Nurse, Director of Residential Care
Samantha Noland joined The Salvation Army Alegria in December of 2009 as the Registered Nurse, Director of Residential Care. She came to us with experience working in Hospice, Oncology, Pediatric Trauma, and Cardiac Care. Before coming to us, she spent many hours volunteering for The Salvation Army Social Services programs through the church she currently attends. Being an employee for The Salvation Army did not slow her down from volunteering, on her off days, she continues to spend time volunteering for her local Salvation Army Social Services program with her family. Future goals include completing her Family Nurse Practitioner degree and working with victims of human trafficking.