Steve Foster and Peggi Lisenbee Wright

WARSAW — Combined Community Services Director of Client Assistance Peggi Lisenbee Wright is retiring after 18 years of service with the nonprofit organization.

Wright’s last day will be Aug. 16. An open house was held in her honor Wednesday, Aug. 9.

“I’ve had the best job in the world,” Wright stated.

Wright cited wanting to focus on writing and spending more time with her 20-month-old grandson as reasons for her departure from the organization.

“I was a writer in my 20s and I haven’t done that in a while,” said Wright, “I really want to put time into that. There’s also the benefit of leaving while you love the job, even though it’s bittersweet.”

Wright and her husband reside in Winona Lake. Originally from West Virginia, Wright has lived in Indiana since the age of 5.

Steve Foster, CCS board member, attended the open house for Wright. Foster, a former Warsaw police chief and former member of the United Way Vision Council, said he became acquainted with Wright approximately 10 years ago when Wright gave a presentation at an event.

“She is absolutely one individual who is so compassionate and has a passion for the people she helps,” said Foster, “You couldn’t listen to her and not want to get involved.”

Wright said she initially worked at the front desk at CCAC, later moving to Project Independence. However, Wright discovered that her true passion is in the area of immediate crisis, so when a position opened in Client Assistance, she applied.

When asked what she has enjoyed most about working at CCS, Wright responded, “Oh, it’s the people. The people we get to know through volunteering and the community. This county is great at helping people in need.”