Welcome Majors Ken and Jenni Perine!
We are blessed to have Majors Ken and Jenni Perine who came from Spokane, Washington in early August, but originally hail from San Diego. They are especially happy to be in Orange County near their children and family. They are true Southern Californians with a love for sailing (both Captain and First Mate) and surfing.
Major Ken is particularly excited to continue the work of the Center of Hope and embraces the goal of bringing people forward from homelessness to a successful, faith-inspired life. He is also excited to support and grow the Anti-Trafficking program in Orange County.
Majors Ken and Jenni are also avid music lovers and began a fabulous music program in Spokane. They are excited about building our new music program for Orange County youth. All three of their children played instruments until they were 18 and their son is a music teacher in San Diego.
Sailors
Major Ken not only sails but teaches sailing lessons. He says that children learn three things when sailing:
- Overcome their fear – because they will fall in the water, especially when just beginning;
- Learn teamwork being a member of the crew; and
- Take on leadership roles.
Foster care
When asked about his proudest accomplishment, Major Perine absolutely glows when he talks about his work in foster care. While in Spokane he grew a foster care program that served three groups of children: 2 -12 years old, 12-17 years old, and 18-20 years old. He hopes that someday The Salvation Army Orange County can launch a foster program but in the near future, he is excited to continue to grow and build the Center for Hope and Music Program, along with the anti-trafficking program in Orange County.
Faith
Major Ken relates his journey with the Lord beginning at age 12. He was going surfing with three Christian friends. His parents hadn’t found the Lord so he took the bus with one of his friends to The Salvation Army each Sunday and found comfort and support in his faith from his Sunday School teacher.
After high school graduation, he joined the Marine Corps (because he could be in the water). After his time in the Marines, he went to college, graduating with a degree in engineering. After graduation, he worked on doing large laser installations while teaching Sunday School at Calvary Chapel.
He describes a calling, “that was almost audible”. He realized that making a lot of money and being asked to do things he knew weren’t right was wrong. Major Jenni was also involved with The Salvation Army and he began his now 27-year journey with the Lord.\
Love for the Lord
He says, “I love to praise the Lord. And with Him, everything will be great because God is in charge.” He leads by the Holy Spirit and tells everyone he sees to, ‘Go to church and Praise God’s word.”
When you meet them you will feel their faith and love. Please stop by and say hello when you see them!