Oceanside CA— Majors John and Lucy Hermanson have taken over the leadership of The Salvation Army’s Oceanside Corps, which serves thousands of families in the region. They bring a renewed energy and focus to expand programs to serve those in need.
“We’re built to be Corps Officers”, says Major John Hermanson “… we are community organizers and advocates and dedicated to facilitating programs and ministerial duties. There are alot of hats to wear, but it’s fulfilling”.
The Hermansons come from years of service in a community north of Oakland. During their tenure there they built and maintained programs and did a major building overhaul. They were also involved with the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary, and Kiwanis among other community organizations.
Since their arrival in Oceanside less than a month ago, they have re-started The “Ozone Program”, a character-building program for kids.
“Kids need stability and dependability” says Major John. “Part of what makes us feel successful in life are our associations. These kids need to know we are here for positive reinforcement.”

About the Hermansons

Major John grew up in Chicago, finishing college at the University of Illinois with a B.A. in Psychology. He met his wife, Lucy at the Salvation Army School for Officers Training.
They worked for several years with the Salvation Army in the Midwest then made a decision to leave in 1989.
After twenty years in outside careers — Major John in the tech world, Major Lucy in communications and editing—they came back to the “work” of Salvation Army officers
“We came back because we felt we were ready again…. It’s a God thing to us; it’s a calling.”
The Hermansons hope to solidify many of the programs that are going on locally to make sure they are operating at their most efficient. “We want the Oceanside Salvation Army to be effective in changing lives,” says Major Hermanson. “We live in a constantly changing environment and yet, the basic human needs remain the same.”

About the Salvation Army

The Salvation Army has been delivering services and hope to the less fortunate in San Diego County for more than 130 years. Oceanside is one of six Corps around the county that run programs for seniors, children and families. All donations made in San Diego stay in San Diego. For more information: http://sandiego.salvationarmy.org
The Oceanside Corps is located at 3935 Lake Blvd, Oceanside, CA 92056.