In an effort to help more veterans learn about the opportunities available to them at the South Santa Clara Valley Memorial District, the district has hired its first executive director.
Christine West will manage the maintenance, repair and remodeling of the district’s Veterans Memorial Building, in addition to marketing the hall to local veterans and the general public.
“For so many years the board has worked diligently to operate the Hall and serve local veterans,” said John Ceballos, SSCVMD board president. “But having an executive director will really take the service we provide to veterans and the community to the next level.”
West comes to the district after working as the executive director for Rebuilding Together-Monterey/Salinas, a nonprofit dedicated to rehabilitating homes for low-income homeowners.
She has a background in communications and advertising and both trainings will come into play as she helps market the district to more veterans and the public. West has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Utah State University and a master’s degree in mass communications from the University of Denver. She also owns and operates Go West Communications, a full-service virtual advertising agency.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to work and make a difference in my own community,” said West. “It will be an honor to work with and for veterans who have served our country. I’m really looking forward to it.”
The SSCVMD is a roughly 250-member club of ex-soldiers who gather for regular meetings and social events. Board members oversee the district’s Veterans Memorial Building at 74 W. Sixth Street in Gilroy. The veteran’s district in Gilroy hosts a range of gatherings throughout the year including services on Memorial Day and a community breakfast on Veteran’s Day. Community clubs and groups rent the building regularly.
For more information about the district or renting the Hall email ss****@gm***.com or call (408) 842-3838.
