Alamogordo Proud: Love INC of Otero County, A Non-Profit Ministry of Compassion, Led with Vision

As a part of our 2nd Life Media AlamogordoTownNews.org's ongoing series called #Alamogordo Proud, we highlight organizations and individuals that have made or are making a positive impact to the Alamogordo Community, thus building community pride or Alamogordo community pride.

In Alamogordo, where economic hardship and housing insecurity touch many lives, Love Inc of Otero County stands as a beacon of coordinated compassion. Love Inc. is one of several tools in the quiver of a safety net for those in need in Alamogordo. Since opening its doors in 2009, the nonprofit has mobilized churches, volunteers, and community partners to meet physical needs while fostering long-term transformation. At the heart of this mission is Executive Director Susan Payne, whose leadership has shaped Love Inc into one of the region’s most trusted human service organizations.

Leadership Rooted in Service

Susan Payne, who also serves as Mayor of Alamogordo, has led Love Inc. since its founding. With a background in nonprofit management, accounting, and public administration, Payne brings both strategic vision and empathy to her role. Her tenure has been marked by a commitment to stewardship, collaboration, and dignity-driven service. “This ministry model of donation and volunteerism has enabled us to be the very best stewards we can be of the resources that have been entrusted to us,” Payne shared in a profile by The Worship Center.

Her dual role in civic leadership and nonprofit service has amplified Love Inc’s reach, allowing the organization to bridge gaps between government, faith communities, and families in need. Payne’s work has earned recognition from Love Inc National, the State of New Mexico Coalition Against Domestic Violence, and Leadership New Mexico. She has been passionate in her resolve that the organization provides "a lift but is not a crutch" and is not a source as an ongoing handout.  Resiliency and self determination for a path forward, out of poverty and need, is the foundation she has tried to engrain in those that are provided services. 

A Property Redeemed, An Example of Blight Mitigation

One of the most visible examples of Love Inc’s impact under Payne’s leadership is the acquisition of its headquarters at 1106 Ohio Avenue—a property in a neighborhood struggling with neglect surrounded with blighted properties. The building, now home to Love Inc’s clearinghouse and ministry operations, was transformed from a structure that was in an area of deteriorated buildings into a hub of hope and service.

This strategic move not only provided a permanent base for the nonprofit’s growing programs, but also helped demonstrate an example of revitalization along Ohio Avenue in Alamogordo's inner city core. The presence of a well-maintained, active nonprofit sets an example to the area’s potential, encouraging other property improvements and signaling a shift toward community investment in the city core, and at the heart of where services are needed. Today, the building stands as a symbol of what coordinated compassion can achieve—not just for individuals, but for entire neighborhoods on the rebound.

 Successes That Speak Volumes

Under Payne’s guidance, Love INC has grown to encompass several core ministries, each addressing a critical area of need. Some of the most impactful successes include:

Furniture and Household Ministries: Hundreds of families have received beds, cookware, and basic furnishings after displacement, domestic violence, or financial crisis.

Medical Equipment Loans: Wheelchairs, walkers, and other devices are provided free of charge to uninsured residents, improving mobility and independence.

Backpack Food Program: Partnering with local schools, Love Inc sends weekend meals home with children identified as food insecure.

PNM Good Neighbor Fund Administration: The organization helps distribute utility assistance to qualifying households, keeping lights on and homes warm.

Community Classes: From financial literacy and parenting to gardening and marriage enrichment, these classes equip clients with tools for long-term stability.

As an example of such classes is in session on Thursdays September 25th thru December 12th on faith and finances.

Love Inc’s clearinghouse model ensures that every client is matched with the right resource—whether through its own ministries or partner churches. Nearly 40 volunteer staff support this mission, making it one of the most collaborative efforts in Otero County’s nonprofit landscape. Collaborations include COPE, DA's Office Victim Advocates, CYFD, Juvenile Probation and Christus Health. One unique aspect of this non-profit ,unlike many in Otero County is that it received zero goverment assistance. It is a true stand alone 501(c)(3) funded purely via partnerships and supporters.

A Community Invitation

Love Inc’s office at 1106 Ohio Avenue is open Monday through Thursday, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, by appointment. Residents can call 575-439-5683 or visit their Facebook Page to learn more, donate, or volunteer.

As Alamogordo faces rising costs and deepening need, Love INC continues to offer not just a handout—but a hand up. Under Susan Payne’s leadership, it remains a ministry of connection, dignity, and hope—and a catalyst for neighborhood renewal.

Sources: 

Chamber of Commerce Listing for Love INC of Otero County 

City of Alamogordo – Mayor Susan L. Payne 

Biography
Bizapedia – Love INC of Otero County Business Registration

KALHRadio.org Interviews with Susan Payne

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