10th of July 2023

 

“A job does not define who you are, but what you do. However, when your job includes a team who wants to help children and families create a better future, it no longer is a job but a calling,” says Fr. John Alexandres, who has been with Trinity Youth Services since 1983. As we celebrate his 40 years of dedicated service, Fr. John reflects on the profound impact of making a difference in the lives of children and families in crisis.

“There is nothing more important in the world than to positively impact a life that has been traumatized and to bring to that life hope, purpose, and joy,” he says. “Our calling is not an easy one nor are we always successful, but the Trinity team will always try to do what is best for children and families.”

Fr. John began at the agency as an on-line counselor, working directly with children at Trinity’s Yucaipa campus. Over the four decades, he has assumed various roles, cumulating in his current position as Director of Quality Assurance.

In this capacity, Fr. John collaborates with staff to ensure the agency provides excellent programs, equipping young people with the tools, skills, and knowledge needed to overcome trauma. His day-to-day responsibilities include managing the safety and operational integrity of our campuses, offices, and warehouse.

Cher Ofstedahl, Chief Executive Officer, attests, “Fr. John Alexandres exemplifies the mission of Trinity Youth Services. His experience, counsel, and absolute dedication to making a significant, lasting difference in the lives of children and youth have made him an invaluable asset to the organization and to the countless lives he has positively impacted over the past 40 years.”

With a bachelor’s degree in broadcasting from the University of Tulsa and a master’s of divinity from Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology, Fr. John sees the opportunity to help the children in our care as a blessing.

Reflecting on his various roles at the agency, Fr. John says, “I try to think how the decisions I make impact the children we care for and also the team members who do the most important work in the agency, which is directly helping children.”

John Neiuber, President of the Board, praises Fr. John’s dedication and loyalty to the mission, emphasizing his reliability and willingness to step into any role as needed. John describes Fr. John as someone of great moral character, honesty, and integrity who inspires those qualities in others.

“He is kind, humorous, and compassionate,” John adds. “Because of the many areas in which he has worked, he has a breadth and understanding of the agency that is difficult to match.”

Recently acknowledged by the agency with a trophy and gifts celebrating this milestone, Fr. John received congratulations from staff, with some lighthearted remarks urging him to stay for another 40 years. The long-term commitment of nearly 50% of Trinity employees, some serving 20 or 30 years, is a testament to the impactful leadership of individuals like Fr. John Alexandres.

In honoring this achievement, we are reminded of the profound difference one individual can make in the lives of many, inspiring us all to continue striving for excellence and positive change.

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Jenelle Phillips, Director of Development
Jenelle’s role is to access and identify resources for youth in our care. She is also responsible for maintaining a distinctive look and voice for Trinity through our online presence, media and community outreach. Before joining the Trinity team in 2016, Jenelle worked in publishing for nearly a decade as a graphic designer, photographer, writer and editor. Jenelle earned a bachelor’s degree in communications at California State University Fullerton and has won several awards throughout her career including a few from the National Newspaper Association. Jenelle is also very involved in her community and is active in her church.