Building a Spirit of Solidarity! By: Raquel Roman, Director of Guadalupe Homeless Project.

The Guadalupe Homeless Project is grateful for its many amazing volunteers that always go above and beyond the call of service.  Our committed volunteers range from those who provide service every day to those that take time away from their families to help make the holidays extra special for the men.

The beautiful spirit of solidarity that has continued over the years would not be possible if it were not for some the following committed  individuals and groups: Mr., Edward F. Castellano, a teacher at Loyola High School who fundraised throughout the year to purchase medicine for the men at the shelter.  Ruth Lindo, a doctor at White Memorial, who met one of the Guadalupanos at the ER and decided to start donating items during the fall seasons.  The women of the community and the different Base Community groups that give more than food, they give GHP love, support, understanding and guidance. Gloria Orozco, a professor at Loyola Marymount University, who inspired the men to express themselves artistically; with her help the men have created a beautiful and moving mural.  Also, our English Teachers, Jay Madden,  Angela Gaudette, and Alyssa Cleary have donated their time to help the men learn English and become successful.

And, George Saroj, a local business man who donates beans and rice, but also saved our Thanksgiving dinner last year.  George showed up with his family to donate turkeys and when he realized how simple our dinner was going to be, he said to me “let’s go to the store and I want you to get  pies, drinks, enough for everyone to have seconds.” His wife and kids helped me decorate, and together we transformed our cafeteria into a home. That day I was moved by the love that George and his family had for the men and their understanding of our mission.  It was a day to give thanks, and for most of us present we experienced the miracle of the holiday and the real meaning of being thankful for others and one another. 

All of our volunteers have a very special and unique way of showing love and appreciation. Just recently one of our Guadalupanos, David Sandoval passed away, and almost immediately one of the regular groups volunteered to help us the day of David’s services.  The community support was amazing, again the love for the men shinned through the gray clouds of sadness that we were all feeling. Cantwell Sacred Heart of Mary High School volunteered to sponsor the meal after David’s funeral.  The feeling of solidarity was overwhelming and the gratitude felt by the Guadalupanos and staff had no words. 

Most importantly, many of the men who have lived at the shelter come back and volunteer. You can find a group of 8 men at the 6 p.m. mass. They serve as readers, and liturgical ministers. Ricardo Camacho, a former GHP participant, volunteers every Sunday. He leads the other 7 men and provides support to staff to make sure that the celebration of mass is well organized. His commitment to the shelter is inspirational and a great example for others. Ricardo like other former participants feel that it is important to give back a little of what was given to them. It is this spirit that truly defines and makes our shelter a unique community.

Below are photographs of the Dolores Mission Choir which cook dinner and sing for the men once a month.