Luminus Celebrates New Office Ribbon Cutting
We are so grateful to have been able to welcome County Council Chair, Debra Jung, who provided a Certificate of Recognition, State Delegates Jessica Feldmark and Pam Lanman Guzzone, State Senator Clarence Lam, County Executive Calvin Ball and several County government staffers, HCPSS School Board Chair Jolene Mosley, HCPSS School Board member Jacky McCoy, several HCPSS teachers and staff, including Howard County Teacher of the Year Jessica Nichols, Gregory Yancey, chief of staff for the Maryland Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives and representatives from Luminus sponsors and allies including the Columbia Association, M&T Bank, FultonBank, the Horizon Foundation, Bridges to Housing Stability, the Community Ecology Institute, the Howard County Library, members of the Women’s Giving Circle, and Turn Around, Inc.
Please enjoy our CEO Gabe Moreno’s welcoming words at Luminus’ ribbon cutting.
“Good morning,
It is my honor and privilege to welcome you to this momentous occasion as we celebrate the grand opening of our new location for Luminus Network. This marks a significant step in continuing our mission to support immigrant families and individuals to not just survive, but thrive, in our community.
Before I continue, I want to take a moment to thank all of you for being here today.
To our dedicated staff, board, and volunteers —
To our esteemed guests, donors and financial supporters, and community partners —
To our elected officials
Everyone’s presence here is a powerful testament to the importance of this work. Your support strengthens our resolve and reminds us that we are not alone in this mission.
This move represents more than just a change in address—it’s a strategic investment in accessibility and inclusivity. By moving near the mall bus stop and cutting our rent in half, we’ve created a space that is more welcoming, reachable, and sustainable.
We are witnessing a significant increase in the number of immigrants seeking support. They remind us of the tremendous resilience, potential, and hope that immigrants bring to our community, and they call us to respond with compassion, resources, and opportunity.
Today, I also want to reflect on the legacy of Jim Rouse, whose vision for Columbia was one of intentional inclusivity—a place where people from all walks of life could live, work, and grow together. His initial dream of diversity was built into Columbia, but did not stay confined in Columbia. Over the decades it has radiated outward to the rest of Howard County.
It was—and remains—a vision of a community where diversity is not merely acknowledged but celebrated, and where every person has the chance to achieve their potential.
As we continue to build on that vision, we must embrace and celebrate the diversity that defines us. But more than that, we must defend it.
We must stand alongside our immigrant neighbors, ensuring they feel a sense of peace and belonging. We must be advocates for their joy—for the opportunities that allow them to create better lives for themselves and their families. This is not just the work of Luminus—it is the work of all of us here.
So, as we cut this ribbon today, let it symbolize not just the opening of a new space, but the opening of hearts, minds, and opportunities. Let this place be a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of community. Together, we can continue to light the way for all who now call this home and those who are yet to come.
Thank you for being here, for your support, and for your shared commitment to this vital work.”
