Pastor Hernandez helped serve drinks to the volunteers who attended the event

Throughout the years, volunteers have dedicated their time and talents to help make the work done through Ysleta Lutheran Mission Human Care (YLM) possible. In the last three, these volunteers have become an even more integral part of the kingdom work, and with the help of all who partner with YLM, they were celebrated for their tireless display of God’s love to their communities.

On February 16, a volunteer appreciation dinner, Grateful Hearts, was held at a small event room, where YLM’s staff let the many volunteers who attended know how much they, and what they do, is appreciated.

There was a delicious dessert selection for all

“We plan the logistics,” Miguel, a YLM staff member, explained to these beautiful volunteers before dinner was served, “But without you, we wouldn’t be able to make it happen.”

Volunteers are the hands and feet of every person, near and far, invested into the kingdom work of YLM. Through them, people’s support, prayers, and encouragement are manifested into tangible and simple acts of kindness for thousands of people in need.

Five generous gift baskets were raffled off throughout the night to volunteers present

Gifts were presented to each volunteer, from a thank you card with a generous gift card inside, as well as a treat bag. They also had fun with the drawing of raffle prizes of five generous gift baskets full of fun things for them to enjoy.

Dinner was served to the volunteers, with the food being lovingly prepared by YLM staff. It was the desire of all the YLM staff to take this Grateful Hearts event as an opportunity to serve those who spend their free time serving others.

Beautiful relationships have evolved in working side by side with volunteers

There are many areas with volunteering opportunities, both in El Paso and Juarez. The Emergency Food Ministry, which has a Food Pantry Drive-Thru every Saturday morning, is the one area always in need of volunteers, as over 150 vehicles pass through to pick up boxes of produce and non-perishable items.

Another area for volunteer opportunities are in the Adelante Ministry, where musicians who play with Mariachi San Pablo give of their time for rehearsals and performances, both in town and out of town.

“Nothing of what takes place could happen without these volunteers,” Rosa Isela, Food Pantry Facilitator, shared along with her gratitude, “They are the ones who carry the work we are being supported and encouraged to do.”

If you would like to volunteer at YLM, you can call (915) 858-2588 and speak to Maritza Muñoz for information on all YLM’s volunteer opportunities.