Rob Gurnee retiring as Executive Director of LCS

As we step into a new chapter at LCS, we find ourselves reflecting on the journey that has brought us here.

Under Rob Gurnee’s steady leadership, our organization has not only grown in reach and impact, it has become a place of purpose, community, and deep connection.

All of us here at LCS have learned and grown in ways we never imagined. Some of us found our voice.

Others discovered our passion. And many of us found a true home among colleagues who believe in the power of service, compassion, and justice.

Please take a moment to watch a message from Rob and read the following statement from the LCS Board of Trustees.

Rob Gurnee, Executive Director of Lutheran Community Services, has decided to retire from LCS effective January 2, 2026. For the past eight years, Rob has led with distinction, positioning the organization on a positive and impactful trajectory.

Simply put, his leadership and vision will be sorely missed. Under Rob's guidance, LCS established itself as a leader in food distribution for those in need and an innovator in unique partnerships that address the larger issue of health inequity and nutrition insecurity. LCS’s partnership with ChristianaCare on the Delaware Food Farmacy has served as a model, and Food is Medicine is now one of Governor Matt Meyer's key initiatives. In addition, in Rob’s tenure, the efforts to prevent homelessness and to help those addicted to tobacco have been expanded for the betterment of the community within Wilmington and beyond.

The process of finding Rob's successor has started and will be overseen by LCS’s Board of Trustees. Board President John Auger will lead the effort, and the Selection Team will be established and begin its work in the next month. We plan to use an experienced consultant to guide our efforts. To ensure a smooth transition, our plan is to have the new candidate in place by the end of November.

We ask for your thoughts and prayers as we embark on what is arguably the most important work that this Board will do. It is our goal to ensure that Rob’s excellent work and innovative approach live on in LCS and that the organization continues to fulfill its vision of: People Moving from Emergency to Empowerment.

-LCS Board of Trustees