Volunteers are the fuel behind the dedication and passion in the desire to love and serve God and others at Ysleta Lutheran Mission Human Care (YLM). We recognize the need for laborers, as Jesus Himself declared, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore, pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest” (Matthew 9:37-38), and we praise God for providing the many volunteers who serve through YLM.

Karla Gonzalez, YLM’s Interim Executive Director, welcomed all volunteers who joined the celebration luncheon held on the last Thursday of April. Her warm smile and words of gratitude communicated the appreciation felt towards the men, women, teenagers, and children who give of their time to help in varied ways at YLM.

A delicious lunch of brisket, beans, coleslaw, and cornbread provided by Hallelujah BBQ was served by YLM staff as conversations flowed. After many had gotten a second helping of brisket, beans, or coleslaw, a raffle was held, giving five of the volunteers present the thrill of winning themed baskets.

The special moments took place afterwards, when Karla began to call up each volunteer, giving them a certificate of appreciation and a custom-made water bottle with their name and YLM’s logo, but most touching for every volunteer, were the personal comments Karla shared about each one of them and their impact in the lives of many.

Afterwards, several of the volunteers present shared the impact YLM has made in their lives. For Yolanda, who received the award for most hours given to YLM, serving as a volunteer helped her during a time of loss and grief, when depression was a struggle, one she felt she no longer fought alone. Orlando shared how his time with YLM has helped him grow in his faith and has shown him what compassion and mercy look like.

Gratitude is extended to Family of Christ Lutheran Church of Ham Lake, MN for their support in making this event possible. Their partnership is a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for YLM.

Are you interested in volunteering at YLM? Give us a call at (915) 858-2588 for more information on how you can bless others with your time and talents.