Former Loaves & Fishes director now heads Children’s Bereavement Centers

Bill Reagan can’t stay retired for long.

The 69-year-old Harlingen resident has been named the executive director of the Children’s Bereavement Centers of the Rio Grande Valley, a post he’s taking on after having previously served in the same capacity for Loaves & Fishes for 11 years before retiring in 2021.

“It is a real honor for me to serve the Children’s Bereavement Center,” Reagan said Thursday. “I was blessed to spend more than a decade of my life helping vulnerable people at Loaves & Fishes. I can’t think of anything better than helping a grieving child. I’m grateful to the Board of Directors for this privilege.”

A nonprofit with just over $1 million in operational expenses in 2023, the centers offer grief counseling for Valley children and teenagers at no cost, and entirely on the strength of donations, at two locations — at 2302 S. 77 Sunshine Strip, Suite 202 in Harlingen, and at 104 S. 12th St. in McAllen.

Reagan was praised by the centers for demonstrating “exceptional leadership and strategic oversight in addressing community needs” during his time at Loaves & Fishes.

“His deep involvement in civic and community initiatives includes being a past president of the Rotary Club of Harlingen, teaching community Bible classes, and serving on the Board of Directors for the Continuum Care, Texas Homeless Network,” the centers’ news release stated.

The Harlingen Chamber of Commerce Heritage Award, the United Way of Northern Cameron County Make a Difference Award, and the 2018 AIM Media Texas Citizen of the Year are just some of the accolades Reagan has earned for his work over the years.

But he’s also served as a spiritual leader — from ministering Lutheran churches in Ohio, Florida and San Antonio before moving to the Valley in the early 2000s, to serving as pastor at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Harlingen prior to his stint at Loaves & Fishes.

“His commitment to making a positive impact in the Rio Grande Valley positions him to lead CBC-RGV (the centers) with vision and compassion,” the release stated. “The Board of Directors is fully confident in Bill’s ability to continue advancing the vital work of CBC-RGV.

To inquire about the services provided at the Children’s Bereavement Centers of the Rio Grande Valley, call (956) 368-4065 or visit the website.

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