New LARSO Executive Director Ramon Garcia Wednesday in his office at the Betty Ehart Senior Center in downtown Los Alamos. Photo by Kirsten Laskey/ladailypost.com

By KIRSTEN LASKEY
Los Alamos Daily Post 
kirsten@ladailypost.com

Ramon Garcia has worked for more than 15 years in nonprofits – mostly with children and young adults – but recently decided to turn his attention to a different demographic: senior citizens.

As of Monday, Garcia is the new Executive Director of the Los Alamos Retired and Senior Organization (LARSO). He replaced Jacci Gruninger. Additionally, Rachael Montoya served as interim Executive Director.

“I saw the opening, and I thought it would be a great idea for me to apply since there is such an opportunity to touch the lives of seniors,” he said in an interview Wednesday with the Los Alamos Daily Post.

Creating a social impact is something Garcia said he is passionate about, adding that LARSO is very impactful.

“There’s so many things LARSO offers but I think if you boil it down to its core, its main objective is aging with dignity,” he said.

Seniors have a lot to offer, Garcia explained. They have lots of experience and knowledge. LARSO makes sure seniors have a place to pursue their passions. Not only is LARSO making an impact on the lives of its members but also on the community at large, he said.

While he has been in the job only for a few days, Garcia said he feels at home at LARSO.

“Everybody has such a good energy for the success of LARSO,” he said. “I’m talking about the volunteers, the staff and the members. Everyone has a sense of loyalty. So, I really enjoy that energy. It is a big family… LARSO brings value to the community. Since my interview, I’ve felt so welcomed.”

“I really felt at home … people have really good energy here,” Garcia added. “Everyone wants LARSO to succeed.”

In a LARSO press release, LARSO Board of Directors President Donna Haynes said the feeling was mutual.

“We look forward to introducing Ramon to all of you soon,” Haynes said, “and are confident that his background and passion for community service will help guide our centers into a bright and sustainable future.”

Before coming to LARSO, Garcia served as Chief Executive Officer of the Pueblo of Pojoaque Boys and Girls Club, where he oversaw the strategic direction, operational management, and financial health of the organization to advance its mission of empowering local youth. He holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from New Mexico Highlands University.

Looking forward, Garcia said he wants to honor Gruninger’s tenure and hopes to serve LARSO for the long term.

“I am excited about this opportunity,” Garcia said.

Garcia resides in Española and has two children. His daughter is a 22-year-old college student, and his son is 17 and attends high school.