In 1999, Don Dickinson’s deep-seated aspiration to establish a supportive network for both inmates and their families led to the inception of The Family Outreach Program. With the help of volunteer Dorothy Scharer, an active-duty police officer, along with five retired nurses and two active nurses, the team worked tirelessly to support as many visitors as possible. They arranged meetings with inmates, operated a mini-daycare and play area for children, and offered guidance on accessing social and religious organizations providing services such as alcohol and drug rehabilitation, legal aid, and more.

As the ministry grew, it began expanding to other facilities, such as Pitchess Detention Center, as more volunteers joined the mission, all sharing the same vision. Chaplain Don Dickinson touched the lives of many inmates and visitors, inspiring meaningful change. One of those deeply influenced was Luis Luca, who, under Dickinson’s mentorship, quickly rose to become a chaplain himself.

Sadly, Dickinson had been battling bone cancer for some time and passed away in 2013. Before his passing, he entrusted his legacy to Luca, appointing him Executive Director of the ministry. Today, Chaplain Luis Luca carries that legacy forward, guiding the Family Outreach Program with deep reverence and steadfast commitment.

After Don Dickinson's blessing, Chaplain Luca dedicated himself fully to sharing the Gospel and supporting families in their time of need. Even as the ministry grew, he never forgot the influence of his mentor. In 2013, as Dickinson neared the end of his battle with bone cancer, he entrusted Luca with the ministry and asking him to carry on the mission that had been his life’s work. Before his passing, Luca asked for Dickinson’s cherished western-style hat—a symbol of the calling and legacy he would continue, just as the prophet Elisha once received Elijah’s mantle.

For many years, Chaplain Luca served faithfully—often alone—ministering to families and providing spiritual guidance with little support. Yet through persistent prayer and unwavering faith, he witnessed the Holy Spirit move across churches, inspiring pastors to raise up new chaplains. One such pastor, Carlos Molina, helped bring chaplaincy training to Los Angeles, connecting many new volunteers to the jail ministry.

Over time, Chaplain Luca forged strong partnerships with fellow faith leaders, including Pastor Jensin Rodríguez and Pastor Carlos Alvarez, who established a chaplaincy institute in North Hollywood. They invited him to join their efforts, and today, Chaplain Luca continues to serve alongside them, spreading hope and the love of Christ to those most in need. His journey is a testament to faith, perseverance, and a deep commitment to a mission that began with a single opportunity—and grew into a legacy.