"A heart at peace gives life to the body"
-Proverbs 14:30
In 1990, inspired by the words of this proverb, the co-founders and directors of Serenity planted seeds of hope in the lives of young children who have been abused, abandoned, neglected, and placed into foster care.
With the grace of God, these women created a network of quality and comprehensive services to ensure that the cycle of abuse stops when a child enters the Serenity family. The diverse cultural backgrounds, family lifestyles, a broad range of educational achievements and professional experiences blended into a cohesive agency in which the best interest of the children is the highest priority.
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Jennifer Jones-Choctaw, Executive Director
Jennifer Jones-Choctaw, Executive Director, received an Associates Degree in Medical Technology, a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology and a Master of Science Degree in Special Education. Her undergraduate and graduate studies were completed in New Haven, Connecticut after which time she relocated to the west coast with her family. Jennifer also received a Graduate School of Management Certificate from the University of California, Riverside, which prepared her to successfully administrate Serenity as a non-profit, charitable organization.
Following Jennifer’s retirement as Executive Director in December 2016, she will continue to support Serenity’s mission as she revitalizes The Rose of Sharon Foundation founded in memory of Serenity’s beloved co-founder, Sharon Hobson. She will also continue to be available as a consultant to Serenity’s current executive director.
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Linda Kontis, Director of Child Placement/Adoptions
Linda Kontis, Director of Child Placement and Adoptions, received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from California State University, Los Angeles, and a Master of Science Degree in Counseling Psychology from California State University, Fullerton. A former Montessori director/teacher, Linda’s professional training as a foster care social worker, and her personal experience as a foster/adoptive parent, developed the first-hand knowledge and compassion necessary to address the needs of the children and families served by Serenity.
Although Linda retired from her position as Director of Child Placement/Adoptions in December 2016 following twenty-six years of dedication, she continues her love for Serenity’s children and families. She is available as a consultant, to assist with special projects, and ultimately plans to become an active board member.
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Sharon Hobson, Director of Social Work/Mental Health
Sharon Hobson, Director of Social Workers and Mental Health, earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Vanguard University and a Master of Science Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from California State University, Dominguez Hills. As a licensed therapist, Sharon’s expertise in supervision of the social work staff, coupled with her innate counseling and organizational skills as well as a genuine heart for children, enabled Serenity’s programs to be of the highest quality.
Much to all of our grief and sorrow, Sharon succumbed to cancer in 2008. In her memory and honor the Rose of Sharon Foundation, a fund development component of Serenity, was established. Sharon’s joy and dedication continues to inspire those who knew her.
