April is Volunteer Appreciation Month, and at Ysleta Lutheran Mission Human Care, there’s no better moment to celebrate the people who keep this ministry moving. Volunteers -short term, long term, local, and cross border -are the heartbeat of YLM. They are the ones who show up, step in, and pour their time and energy into work that changes lives every day.
This year, close to thirty six volunteers from El Paso and Cd. Juárez gathered for YLM’s Volunteer Appreciation Dinner. The room filled quickly, conversations rising and blending into the kind of warm noise that only happens when people who serve together finally get to sit together. Staff greeted volunteers with smiles and small gifts, grateful for the chance to honor the people who make ministry possible.
Karla Gonzalez, Interim Executive Director, welcomed everyone with words that set the tone for the evening. She thanked volunteers for the hours they give and the love they bring, reminding them that every act of service—big or small—moves God’s kingdom forward. Her message echoed the parable of the talents: God entrusts His people with gifts, and volunteers at YLM put those gifts to work in ways that multiply hope, compassion, and opportunity.
Dinner followed, beginning with self serve nachos and aguas frescas, then plates of tacos and rice. Laughter rolled through the room as people shared stories from the past year—moments from Servant Events, food distributions, worship gatherings, and quiet acts of kindness that rarely make it into photos but always make a difference.
After cake was served, Karla handed out certificates and gift bags, each one a small reminder of how deeply valued these volunteers are. Then came the raffle, which brought its own kind of joy. Youth and children volunteers cheered as prizes like Legos and instant cameras found new owners. Adults joined in next, clapping and celebrating as names were called and wrapped gifts were opened. The camaraderie in the room said everything: these volunteers don’t just serve together, they are part of one body.
The evening was more than a dinner. It was a glimpse of what happens when people use their God given talents to serve others. It was a reminder that ministry grows when hands are willing, hearts are open, and gifts are shared freely.
YLM is grateful for every volunteer who gives their time, strength, and creativity to this mission. If you feel called to serve—whether for a day, a week, or a season—we would love to welcome you into this community of joyful workers. Come be part of the story God is writing here on the border.
To learn more about volunteering at YLM, call (915) 858‑2588 or email daniel.madriz@ylm.org.
