MISSION UPDATE

On Tuesday, Sharon Ludwick Warner, Board member for EQSD PAC, arranged a meeting between myself and Jim Castleberry, Executive Director of the Cornerstone Rescue Mission so we could discuss the LGBT communities concerns regarding the Mission.

I wish to report that it was a very frank and productive meeting. I was assured that the Mission is open to everyone and that discrimination and intolerance would not be allowed. Director Castleberry explained the steps that were being taken to eliminate problems and to ensure that everyone would be treated equally and fairly. He is moving his office back into the Mission. This will allow him to have a better handle on the day to day operations and problems at The Mission.

The staff member about whom the compaints were expressed is leaving at the end of February. I am told this is a mutually agreed upon move due to differences of opinion on the operating philosophy of the mission.

Understanding the problems inherent in operating the Mission and dealing with the myriad of problems associated with the variety of clientele utilizing the services, I was pleased with Director Castleberry's willingness and dedication to making the Mission a safe and welcoming environment for everyone in need of the services they have to offer.

My impression is that Jim Castleberry is a good man and this community is fortunate to have him in charge of such a difficult yet vitally necessary operation.