Leslie Smith-Lennox, Family Support Coordinator
I was born and raised in a small town in South Carolina, where I developed a strong sense of community and a passion for loving others. I earned my undergraduate degree in Social Work from Columbia College and later completed my Master of Social Work at the University of South Carolina.
My path into this field is deeply personal, which led me full circle to Project Sanctuary. As the daughter of a Marine who struggled with PTSD, I became a strong advocate early on, helping my father navigate and access the services he desperately needed within medical and mental health treatment. Those experiences shaped my commitment to supporting military individuals and families through some of life’s most challenging moments once this population is integrated back into the civilian world.
Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to serve in a variety of roles, including psychotherapist, admissions, marketing, and case management, all while working with diverse populations. I truly enjoy connecting with people, meeting them where they are, and helping them find a path forward to thrive.
One of the most meaningful experiences in my career was working at the Shepherd Center, a nationally recognized rehabilitation hospital for spinal cord and brain injury. As a case manager with the SHARE Military Initiative, I had the honor of supporting post-9/11 service members and their families through intensive outpatient programs and housing, helping them heal, rebuild, and to move forward with hope.
I am thrilled to be with all of you at Project Sanctuary, so let's get to serving!
Kelli Sands, Retreat Intake Coordinator
My husband Kevin and I have been married for 27 years. Kevin is a Navy veteran, who served 4 years as a linguist before being medically discharged. Colorado was our home for 13 years where we raised our older children. We have recently moved to Missouri from CO. We have 3 children, Ashton 23 yr (Ashton's wife Katey 23 yr), Kendra 20 yr, and Solomon 11 yr.
In January 2015, I began my journey with Project Sanctuary as the Family Engagement Manager (which I loved!) In 2021, I left Project Sanctuary due to my youngest son needing me full-time.
I am excited to join the team once again as the Retreat Intake Coordinator. I am passionate about our families and enjoy advocating for them to the fullest of my ability. I believe that personal relationships and communication are key to making a real impact and building lasting trust with our families.
When I am not in the office, you will likely find me collecting eggs from the hen house, strolling the property with my two goats and dog, or dabbling in the garden. I love the outdoors and being in nature.
I look forward to working together for the betterment of our families.
Cathe Ganley, Mental Health Program Coordinator and Retreat Counselor
Cathe is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, recently returned to the U.S. after six and half years of counseling American military families on posts in Italy and Germany. Prior to becoming a licensed clinician in 2019, Cathe worked as a USO morale facilities manager for three and a half years in Afghanistan and Kuwait, seeing firsthand the need for expanded mental health services for veterans. Cathe has served as a Project Sanctuary volunteer for many retreats over the past 10 years, in both Colorado and North Carolina. She recalls having come across the Project Sanctuary website in early 2015, while researching a paper for graduate school, and is excited to finally be in a position to join the Project Sanctuary team in a staff role. In her free time, Cathe enjoys traveling, dabbling in art, spending time outdoors, and spending time with friends.
