100 Days of Volunteering: Gabriella

100 Days of Service: Gabriela

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 18:31:38 GMT

Volunteers at the Heart of Our Meal Program

At House of Neighborly Service, our warm meal distribution program runs on the dedication and compassion of our volunteers. They are the bridge between our kitchen and the senior neighbors in 78207 who count on a friendly face and a nourishing meal each day.

In July 2025, we expanded our reach by adding a fourth delivery route, allowing us to remove several seniors from our waiting list. With more meals to deliver, we need more helping hands to keep up with the growing need.

We are deeply grateful to the loyal volunteers and staff who pause their busy days to ensure our neighbors are fed and cared for. Every delivery includes more than just a meal—volunteers check in to make sure basic needs are met, often becoming the only source of connection for those who may not see anyone else that day.

Celebrating Gabriela’s 100 Volunteer Days

This month, we’re proud to recognize Gabriela, a University of Texas at San Antonio student, for completing 100 days of volunteering with us!

Gabriela grew up on the Westside and has a special heart for the senior population. She says the smiles, conversations, and heartfelt thanks she receives from seniors are what keep her coming back.

Her time with HNS has been just as impactful for her : “I am passionate about working with underserved populations and plan to continue doing so outside of volunteering. I intend to work with underserved populations during medical school and as a physician.”

Gabriela’s dedication has not only made an impact on our seniors but has also shaped her future career path. We are so grateful for her service and commitment.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Our fast-growing meal program is a testament to the needs of our community—and the power of volunteers to meet them. Volunteers commit just 2–3 hours a day (10:30 AM–12:30 PM) to deliver meals or assist with curbside distribution. If you’d like to make a difference in the lives of our senior neighbors, sign up to volunteer at www.hnstoday.org/volunteer. Together, we can create better todays and brighter tomorrows.

A View From A Volunteer

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 17:04:42 GMT

“Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart.” - Elizabeth Andrew

Caption: Cammie (left), our faithful and supportive volunteer & Roni (right), our dedicated Kitchen Staff member prior to starting the day's deliveries.

Introduction:

Volunteering, at times, seems to be an elusive task to some individuals. And, for some cases, it is. Volunteering your time is quite the significant thing to do in 2024, where time can be viewed as money. For a host of people, their time is money and volunteering is no small fee to pay. That's why we, like many other nonprofit organizations, are especially proud of our volunteers and cherish them deeply. Because, out of the kindness of their hearts, they take time out of their day to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve. These noble extensions help our organization touch lives, and help us grow the amount we can serve. In many ways, a volunteer can be seen as the most admirable contributors to a nonprofit- they answer a call to duty without compensation.

Their Story:

With that being said, and in a twist of perspective, we'd like to highlight how volunteering can impact the individuals who graciously give their time with us. That by helping others, you can help yourself. That giving with your heart, doesn't always equate to a monetary transaction. Last, but certainly not least, that impacting others, impacts yourself, above all else. It is with great pleasure and honor that we leave you with Cammie's message about volunteering with us here at HNS. So, without further ado, please enjoy their words:

" My name is Cammie Scott-Donohue and I retired from the U.S Air Force after serving 21 years as a Medical Service Specialist. I moved to San Antonio in January of 2023 from Florida. Since a young child, I have always had a passion for serving others; I believe God has given me a gift of service, and I have been led to use this gift in many ways my entire life.

When I moved to San Antonio, I knew I wanted to do something to help seniors so, like many, I googled 'places to volunteer in San Antonio', and 'House of Neighborly Service' popped up. I read about the services they provide and knew meal delivery would be right up my alley. I love meeting new people, and the more I show up, the better the connection, and the more we become like a family. We deliver 1 meal per-day, Monday-Friday; for some seniors without family, we are the only outside interaction that they have all day. It is a special moment that they look forward to. My daughter occasionally comes to volunteer with me too. She enjoys putting smiles on their faces and brushing up on her Spanish. It’s an incredible way to make memories together.

There is one family that has touched our hearts in a special way: they are two sisters, close to 100 years old. Physically they are tiny and frail, but their hearts are big and full of love. They always have a hug and kiss for us each time we visit. You would never know at times all they have in the fridge is a pot of beans or that day they’ve had to make the difficult decision whether to feed their pets or themselves. Neither of them speak any English so we use google translate a lot. But that doesn’t stop us from creating a strong bond. They are our adopted grandmothers, and they love us as their own granddaughters. I have been volunteering with HNS for a little over a year; one thing I have noticed is that each and every one of HNS has a calling for this mission. No one I’ve met does this job begrudgingly. They all have a joyful spirit and pour out their heart to this community.

While doing my route, I’m not only handing them a plate of food but doing a wellness check to see if they have any emergent needs or health concerns. Anything I have brought to Zach’s attention, whether it be lawn care needs, exterminator, wheelchair ramp, someone is just not feeling well or an emergent food supply is needed he has quickly attained the necessary resources to rectify the situation. Zach and HNS have so many resources for seniors in this community and he sees to it that the HNS staff joins hands, puts their heads together and finds a solution. There is also someone else that I’d like to recognize: Roni and all of the angels that work in the kitchen; these ladies are a breath of fresh air every day. I love to see them doing what they enjoy while also putting their hearts into each and every meal. Things I have learned while volunteering with HNS: - Love is a universal language - Volunteers often feel as though they are helping change lives, when often, it’s our lives that our being changed. - A hug and a smile speak volumes. - Volunteering is not an obligation, it’s an honor.

Volunteering with HNS has taught me that it’s important to love people where they’re at; it’s not our job to change people or provide them with materialistic things that we envision for them to have but to lift them up in their time in need, to provide them with a listening ear and a better quality of life. If you are looking for a volunteer opportunity and have never volunteered before, HNS is the perfect place to get your feet wet. In the time it takes to scroll through Facebook, or watch a few TikTok videos, you could’ve impacted 20-30 families, learned some Spanish, made new friends, and helped someone in need. Make a difference one meal at a time. You won’t regret it, I promise."

Conclusion:

In summary, volunteering is a powerful way to make a difference, not only in the lives of others but also in your own. Whether it’s through lending a helping hand, sharing a skill, or simply being a compassionate presence, every act of service strengthens the bonds within our community. At House of Neighborly Service, our volunteers are at the heart of our mission, creating lasting change in the lives of children, families, and seniors.

We'd like to extend a warm round of applause, gratitude, and thanks to Cammie, for sharing their story with us. Furthermore, to all of our volunteers, we are incredibly grateful for the time and energy you’ve dedicated. Your efforts remind us every day of the profound impact that a caring community can have. But there is always more we can achieve together, and we need more people like you to help us continue our work.

Now is the time to join us. Whether you can commit a few hours or become a regular volunteer, your contribution will make a difference. If you’re ready to make a lasting impact and be part of something greater, we invite you to volunteer with us today.

Together, we can build a stronger, more connected community. Together, we can create a Better Today, and forge a Brighter Tomorrow.

HNS History: Chicano Movement & Our Part

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 15:00:10 GMT

House of Neighborly Service and Its Role in the Chicano Movement

For over a century, House of Neighborly Service (HNS) has stood as a pillar of support for marginalized communities in San Antonio. Our deep commitment to the people we serve has led us to be a part of many key social movements, including the Chicano movement, which fought for the civil rights and empowerment of Mexican Americans during the 1960s and 1970s.

The impact of our involvement is highlighted in T he Illusion of Inclusion: The Untold Political Story of San Antonio by Rodolfo Rosales . Pages 110 and 111 delve into our role during this critical period. If you're interested in checking out the book yourself, please refer to your nearest library , or it can be found on Amazon . Here’s an excerpt from the book:

"It was during this time, with the direct support of House of Neighborly Services, then directed by Martin Garza, that a welfare rights organization in the westside barrios was established in San Antonio. Out of this organization many grassroots women got directly involved in protest politics, including Alicia Martinez, Lupe Ybarra, Elvira Gomez, JoAnn Gutierrez, and many others. Besides confronting the local issues of education, health, and other issues, they were also instrumental in recruiting younger Chicanos into the politics of the day, including gang members (pg. 110)." Of note, Alicia Martinez was the Secretary for HNS in the 1960s and early 1970s.

Furthermore, "Alicia Martinez recalls that many of their protest marches included gang members from the barrio where the House of Neighborly Services was located. In one march it was the presence of and the leadership of the Chicana Welfare Rights Organization that helped them avoid a disastrous confrontation with another gang, as they marched through their barrio:

' The welfare mothers and I, I'll never forget, they were trying to do, I don't remember what the issue was, but it was something at the Good Samaritan Center. We marched from the House of Neighborly [Services] to the Good Sam, and some of the boys couldn't march because that was a ghost town. So the women had to march around them and that was okay, the ghost town, the gang at that time, so the guys de la Es-piga [ the gang of young men marching with them] over here where we couldn't march with them. And the women, you know, las señora marched with them and it was okay then. Los del ghost los de-jaron passar [let all of us pass] (Pg. 110-111).'"

Therefore, as the Chicano movement grew in San Antonio, institutions like ours became vital hubs of activity. Providing more than social services, HNS was a gathering place for community discussions, organizing efforts, and cultural pride. We have nurtured leaders who would go on to play significant roles in local and national advocacy, grounding their work in the realities of their neighborhoods.

This passage highlights how HNS was more than just a service provider; we were a cornerstone for change, helping to shape the political and cultural landscape of our community. The organization created a space where Mexican-Americans, Chicanos, and Hispanics could find their voice, advocate for justice, and embrace their heritage.

We continue to honor this legacy today by empowering our community through various programs, always guided by the principles of inclusion, equity, and dignity. HNS remains dedicated to uplifting underserved populations and promoting the rich history and culture of Hispanic people, just as we did during the Chicano movement.

As we reflect on this proud history, we are reminded that our work is ongoing. The fight for equality and justice requires all of us to come together, just as those who walked before us did. In the spirit of honor, remembrance, and tradition, we are pleased to share this piece during Hispanic Heritage Month to acknowledge and celebrate our roots, as well as our role in an essential historical social movement for our community, from which we originate and to whom we serve. If you wish to support our organization and advance our mission, please visit our donation page . We built our house, as a home for others. Here, we strive to make each dawn a Better Today, for a Brighter Tomorrow.

Extended Stay with Eloisa

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 19:51:36 GMT

Finding Community and Care at House of Neighborly Service: A Senior’s Journey

It was a particularly sunny morning in our little corner of the world—or in this case, our slice of the Palmas. On this sunny, quaint, and peaceful morning, I had the pleasure of interviewing Eloisa, a dedicated senior who has been part of our services for 12 years. When I went to speak with her, I entered the Vasquez Center, affectionately referred to as "the senior center," and waited for Eloisa to finish writing her notes from the latest speaker. As I waited, I looked around at the faces of all our seniors in attendance, realizing that each one of them had a life lived and a story to tell. It wasn't a groundbreaking revelation, nor should it be treated as such, but it was at that moment it hit me that these stories deserved to be told. In other words, these are the stories of our individual neighbors who, together, create a collective narrative that turns House of Neighborly Service into a home for everyone.

For more than a century, House of Neighborly Service (HNS) has been a steadfast beacon of support in our community. Our Senior Health Program offers older adults a place for social engagement, health education, and emotional support—a true haven for many. It's with great pleasure, dear neighbors, that we welcome Eloisa's story to the stage. She was kind enough to share her story and give us a glimpse into what makes House of Neighborly Service feel like home.

Discovering a Second Home

Eloisa’s first encounter with HNS was, as she tells it, like finding a second home. “A volunteer at Sacred Heart on Trinity told me, ‘House of Neighborly Service has loteria, good food, and everything else you could want.’ Slowly but surely, we grew in our group and visited. The rest is history,” she said with a smile. Over the years, her love for our program has led her to bring ten other seniors into our fold. “I tell them what I'm telling you!” she says proudly, confident that HNS has something special to offer. Unlike other places she’s been, HNS feels like family to her. “Other senior centers I've been to aren't as personable,” she noted, emphasizing the warmth and personal connection she feels here.

Memories and Moments That Matter

Every memory at HNS is a good one, Eloisa shared with a grin. “We celebrate everything: birthdays, holidays, etc. You always go home and remember your day at HNS.” It’s these moments of joy and celebration that stand out to her. But it’s not just the celebrations; it’s the people. “We love Elsa. Everyone will tell you she's our second mom,” she added, her voice full of affection. The bonds formed here run deep. To the seniors, Elsa is more than just a program leader—she’s family.

A Strong Sense of Community

What makes HNS feel like home? For Eloisa, it’s simple: “Family. We're family. Everyone's friendly. We all have our ups and downs together, but we are always together through it all.” This sense of togetherness has been a lifeline for her, especially after the tough year of 2020. “I stopped going to centers entirely in 2020, so coming back here, my husband can certainly tell the difference!” she laughed. Coming back to the supportive community at HNS has been like finding her feet again.

The Joy of Social Connections

Social connections are at the heart of HNS, and for Eloisa, these connections are invaluable. “We're family!” she exclaimed when asked about the friendships she’s formed. The lively environment, the good food, and the joy of being around so many wonderful people create a vibrant atmosphere. “The food! The environment, & the amount of people!” she listed her favorite things about HNS with a gleam in her eye. Her enthusiasm is contagious, and it’s clear that HNS is a place she cherishes. “I don't wanna miss it! I love it!” she said, and you could feel the joy and anticipation in her voice.

An Evolving Experience

Reflecting on her journey with us, Eloisa shared that she never felt nervous about coming to HNS. “There [was] never any nervousness about us. From the start, I could tell the friendliness. We have more staff than other centers, so there was always a sense of calmness that has continued throughout my time here.” It’s this welcoming environment that makes everyone feel at ease. “You don't have to worry about group involvement or being the first to speak; the staff and the familiarity of everyone has always made such an inviting environment,” she explained. HNS is a place where you can relax and know you’re among friends.

Looking Ahead

When asked about her hopes for the future of HNS, Eloisa had a simple request: “We need a bigger place. Much bigger.” The growing community at HNS is a testament to its success, and we are always looking for ways to accommodate more members and enhance their experience. “A bigger space with bigger bathrooms,” she suggested with a laugh, pointing out the practical needs that come with a thriving program.

A Message to Newcomers

For anyone thinking about joining our Senior Health Program, Eloisa has some advice: “I've brought ten people, so I know how to convince them! I tell them what I'm telling you!” Her words are full of the genuine appreciation and joy that HNS brings to its members. The sense of community and the personal connections made here are priceless.

At House of Neighborly Service, we believe in the power of community, support, and care. As we continue to grow and serve, we are dedicated to creating a space where seniors can thrive, connect, and find joy every day.

Closing Remarks

In conclusion, we are deeply grateful to Eloisa for taking the time to share her story with us. Her commitment to House of Neighborly Service and her enthusiasm for our Senior Health Program truly inspire us. Eloisa’s dedication not only enriches our community but also serves as a powerful reminder of the impact our programs can have on the lives of seniors. Her ongoing advocacy has brought many new members through our doors, helping to build a vibrant and supportive environment where everyone feels like family.

For those interested in learning more about our Senior Health Program and the services we provide, we invite you to visit our Senior Health page . Here, you can find more information about the activities, health education, and social engagement opportunities available to our senior members.

As our community continues to grow, so does the need for more space to accommodate our expanding programs. With your generous support, we can make this a reality through Phase Two of our Capitol Campaign. This initiative aims to provide the larger facilities we need to better serve our seniors, ensuring they have a comfortable and welcoming space to enjoy all that HNS has to offer.

If you would like to contribute to this important cause and help us continue to make a difference in the lives of our senior members, please visit our donation page . Every donation brings us one step closer to our goal, helping to create a brighter future for everyone in our community. Thank you for your support! Lastly, if you are interested in keeping up with all of the latest news and happenings, I encourage you to follow us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn), and subscribe to our newsletter!

Knowing our Neighborhood: Interview with a Social Work Intern

hnsweb (Linda Brady) — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 18:42:21 GMT

Insight, Intrigue, and an In-Depth look at interning at HNS

As Volunteer Appreciation Week (April 22 - April 26) unfolds, we find ourselves reflecting on the immense value volunteers bring to our organizations, communities, and lives. Amidst this week of gratitude and recognition, I had the privilege of sitting down with one of our dedicated interns, whose contributions have been nothing short of remarkable. Join me in extending our sincerest thanks to them for their time, effort, and unwavering commitment to our cause.

In this interview, we delve into their experiences, insights, and the profound impact volunteering has had on their journey. It's a testament to the power of individuals coming together, each bringing their unique skills and passion to the table, all united by a common purpose.

So, without further ado, let's hear from our immaculate intern as they share their perspective on volunteering, the lessons learned, and the moments that have left an indelible mark on their journey. Below is the transcription from our interview.

Zach: What made you want to intern here at HNS?

-Jannette: I liked the mission statement. I connected to empowering and educating the community. Additionally, I especially connect to the community here, being a Latina myself.

Zach: Had you heard of HNS before your internship?

-Jannette: I hadn’t.

Zach: What have you learned about our community and impact since your internship?

-Jannette: I learned about the critical need for my program, BienEstar Juntos. It's designed to empower parents and give kids a head start in life, particularly in our community where these resources may not always be readily accessible. Our program focuses on helping children develop essential social and emotional skills, such as regulation and relationship-building, particularly for those with behavioral concerns."

Zach: What is your internship over?

-Jannette: For my Master's Degree, in Clinical Social Work, I need clinical hours as part of my advanced field practicum.

Zach: So, to anyone who has never heard of HNS, how would you describe the need for your program?

-Jannette: Bienestar Juntos is needed in our community to help our children get a head start, especially during such a critical developmental stage. Children in our community and many others face challenges and barriers that may interfere with their development. Our program aims to alleviate some of these challenges by empowering positive transformation within children and their families. Mental health programs help build the necessary skills for children in life- build relationships, manage emotions, and communicate. Which is so critical in our communities to help and break harmful cycles.

Zach: How long was your internship?

- Jannette: Over the span of eight months, I completed a two-semester internship and learned an immeasurable amount. While taking classes in school is valuable, being able to actually apply what I learned firsthand was wonderful. During my lengthy internship, I had the opportunity to develop, implement, and monitor projects over time and make adjustments as necessary. Overall, it was an amazing experience.

Zach: What made you want to get into your education?

- Jannette: I pursued a different career path that left me feeling unfulfilled, but fortunately, my educational journey led me to HNS where I can finally give back to society.

Zach: What made you realize that HNS fit your educational needs?

-Jannette: It was effective in terms of mental health, particularly with minority families. I decided to try a new form of therapy by working with kids, something I had not done before. I wanted to see if this was something I enjoyed.

Zach: Has HNS given you educational and practical experience?

-Jannette: Very much so.

Zach: What would you say to other students about interning at HNS?

-Jannette: Do it! Come with an open mind ready to learn and work on yourself and you’ll learn so many new skills!

Zach: What’s been the biggest hurdle/has there been a harsh grasp of reality since starting your internship?

-Jannette: Yes, utilizing skills to help children regulate. I want to have a magic wand and spread happiness, but sadly, I can’t. It takes patience, time, and consistency- which is something we work on, to help children deal with big emotions.

Zach: What’s been your favorite part of the internship?

-Jannette: Working with Kids! Which is definitely something I didn’t think I would say!

Zach: Will you always look fondly on HNS and our community or are you itching to get out the door?

- Jannette: No, I will absolutely look fondly at my time here, the people I’ve met, the experiences that shaped me, and the people/community I bonded with.

As we draw this insightful interview to a close, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our intern for their candid sharing and inspiring dedication. Their journey serves as a reminder of the transformative power of volunteering, igniting change within ourselves and the world around us. To our readers, thank you for joining us on this exploration of passion, purpose, and the profound impact of volunteerism. Your support and engagement are integral to our collective mission, and we are deeply grateful for your continued commitment. As Volunteer Appreciation Week concludes, let us carry forward the spirit of gratitude and service, honoring the countless individuals who selflessly give their time, skills, and hearts to make a difference.

Until next time, may we all find joy and fulfillment in the act of giving back.

13 Years & Counting - An Interview With Estella

hnsweb (Linda Brady) — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 15:34:54 GMT

A Decade of Reflection

Estella has been coming to House of Neighborly Service since 2011, so for 13 years! And hopefully, for a lot more. The following text is a transcription of our interview with Estella, who is happy to share their connection with us at HNS, or as they call us, their "home away from home". It was an honor to speak with Estella, and it is an even greater honor to be able to care for Estella and all the seniors in our program. We hope you enjoy reading!

Zach : How long have you been coming to HNS?

Estella : 13 years.

Zach : You look 21!

Estella : *laughs*

Zach : So, Estella, what keeps you coming back to us?

Estella : The people, it feels like family. My husband initially started coming to HNS for its food pantry. After his passing, I started coming because of its familiarity. It reminded me of him, and through him, and y'all, I have created a new family. The staff has always treated me as such and always made me feel welcomed and comfortable. Not to mention the food!

Zach : What's your favorite part about HNS?

Estella : Loteria!

Zach : What's something new that you've learned since coming here?

Estella: I learned to socialize! I was always a bit shy or didn't do well with others. I used to never go out because I was a mother with seven kids. Now, since coming here, I go out with the friends I made here, come to socialize, and y'all take us on trips I would've never gone on, on my own.

Zach : Have we helped you with anything else that you're really grateful for?

Estella : I was able to visit my daughter when she was out of town during COVID. That was something I did not know how to do, I wanted to see my daughter, and y'all helped me.

Zach : If you were trying to convince another senior to come join us, what would you tell them?

Estella : They feed us, they give us food boxes, the classes are great, and we have fun! It's a great place to come and have a good time!

Zach : One thing that I am so amazed at is the fact you've been coming nearly every week for 13 years and counting. Why us for over thirteen years? Out of all the places you could go to?

Estella : Hm, well, I consider Elsa, Jillian, and Cindy (staff members), as a part of my own family. I want to see them.

Zach : Do you have a favorite memory here?

Estella : When I don't come, I'm sad. So, I guess I'm always making new ones!

Libritos con Abuelitos

Fri, 19 Jul 2019 02:52:08 GMT

Libritos Con Abuelitos is HNS’s intergenerational reading program designed to combat loneliness in elders and provide positive role models for young children.

Josie and Irma are in their usual spot for a Tuesday morning, chatting warmly after chair yoga. They have both come to HNS for over a year, but didn’t really know each other until our new Libritos con Abuelitos program. After a few weeks of volunteering together, they became fast friends and someone first meeting them might guess they share a long history. In a way they do, as they bond over shared life experiences and joy in passing along their wisdom to younger generations.

Libritos Con Abuelitos is HNS’s intergenerational reading program designed to combat loneliness in elders and provide positive role models for young children. Libritos is pretty cutting-edge for this community says Annalise, HNS’s AmeriCorps VISTA who helped launch the program. Children in the Westside do not often experience one-on-one reading time. In Libritos, they get to spend time every week with the same “abuelito,” or grandparent figure. Our partners at Yoga Day also brought in “storybook yoga” where children and seniors learned poses based on book characters. This interactive approach generated loads of smiles and was a creative way to weave storytelling, physical activity and relationship building together.

Irma first came to San Antonio from Piedras Negras, Mexico in the 1960s and is a cancer survivor. She takes two buses to HNS where she loves playing loteria with other seniors. As one of our “abuelitos,” she reads to five year old Santiago, whom she affectionately calls Santi. She appreciates their close bond and the eagerness he brings to reading time.

Josie is enthusiastic about her reading partner, Emma, and moved by how excited she was each week for storytime. Josie says it felt good to be a part of something that sparked joy. A mother of nine, grandma and great grandma to dozens, Josie’s nurturing spirit radiates.

Like many seniors in our community, Josie and Irma were not able to finish school, so giving back to the next generation is a way to empower both themselves and their community. As Coretta Scott King once said, “the greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its neighbors.” Thank you, Irma and Josie, for making our HNS community that much greater.

Luis’s Story

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 02:45:48 GMT

One June 14, 2019, The Rivard Report published an article about our Capital Campaign, featuring the story of Luis Vargas – HNS alumnus and the lead architect on our rehabilitation project. Below is an excerpt from this article. You can read the full story here . Photo courtesy of The Rivard Report.

“I want to be able to give to other kids the opportunities I was given... It means the world to me to know that I will be involved in a little part of that.”

Luis, HNS Neighbor

Luis Vargas spent most of his childhood in a community center in the Prospect Hill neighborhood on San Antonio’s West Side. In between basketball, summer camps, and after-school programs, it became like a second home to him. Now he is back to help the community that helped raise him as the project manager in charge of redesigning a century-old building.

The nonprofit House of Neighborly Service (HNS) and Divine Redeemer Presbyterian Church partner to provide family support and child development programs, senior care, and food distribution in a shared space. The last time the community center, located at 407 N. Calaveras, was redesigned was in 1929.

After all those years of use, the disrepair began to mount: roofs leaked, plumbing broke down, and air conditioning gave out. And the population it serves keeps growing. Rev. Rob Mueller of Divine Redeemer Church mentored Vargas in his youth and kept his name in mind when the church and HNS began renovation plans after an electrical inspection revealed several issues with the building.

Read full article

Ralphie’s Story

Sat, 11 May 2019 02:38:38 GMT

“When Ralphie started, he didn’t talk much… but since he’s been here his speech and over all social skills have greatly improved.”

Elia, HNS Pre-K Teacher

When Ralphie’s father passed away, his family’s world was turned upside down. His mother had to quickly find work to keep them afloat, as well as affordable childcare for Ralphie.

Watch this inspiring video – produced in partnership with students at Somerset High School – to see what happened after they found HNS.

De Pura Chiripada

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 18:56:13 GMT

“From my work with seniors, I learned what it means to 'care, but not carry.' From helping Señor Pascual during lunch or visiting Señora Mary in her home, I was continuously inspired by stories of resilience and determination.”

Ameena, HNS Intern

Ameena is a San Antonio native currently studying at Dartmouth University. She spent her Spring 2019 term interning with HNS and reflects below on this experience.

“De pura chiripada.” If anyone asks how in the world I came across an internship with HNS, that is what I would tell them. Over the course of my internship, I fell in love with the rich history and culture of the Westside. I also learned a lot about HNS, the clients and people I have come to admire, and my own purpose in the world.

For my internship, I shadowed HNS’s Clinical Case Manager and Family Support Specialists. I also read with Kid’s Place students, which was certainly the cutest part of each day!

From my work with seniors, I learned what it means to “care, but not carry.” From helping Señor Pascual during lunch or visiting Señora Mary in her home, I was continuously inspired by stories of resilience and determination. I felt loved and respected by the seniors of HNS who had not known me a month prior. I felt integrated into this beautiful community already after my first round of Loteria.

From the children I read to and interacted with, I relived my childhood and basked in the unending love and excitement they shared with me. I tried to make the books we were reading come alive through silly voices and questions and I hope they will foster the same love for reading that I had as a child. These bundles of joy reminded me of the beauty of innocence, taught me the importance of carefree laughter, and compelled me to become energetic and animated again.

The phrase I started this reflection with means “a stroke of luck.” I feel very lucky to have become a part of the HNS community and receive lessons I will carry with me well beyond my time in the Westside.

Antonio’s Story

Mon, 29 Oct 2018 18:42:53 GMT

“I went through very difficult times, but with the help of HNS, they’ve lightened my load.”

Antonio, HNS Neighbor

As he walks in to House of Neighborly Service, Antonio is welcomed by a warm, friendly atmosphere. He instantly smells the delicious aroma of a home-style cooking in the kitchen. He can hear the buzz from the Fellowship Hall where many of his friends are enjoying each other’s company, waiting in anticipation for lunch to be served and bingo to begin soon after.

Thirty years ago, Antonio journeyed to America in search of better work opportunities. Although he visits his family in Mexico often, Antonio has settled in San Antonio’s Westside community just three blocks from HNS, a place that has become his second home. Antonio has made lots of good friends in San Antonio, many of whom he met through HNS. Invited by a fellow neighbor, Antonio has been coming here for over 7 years now.

Antonio likes to spend his days reading and listening to the radio, but he says the best part of his day is when he’s at HNS. You will often find Antonio chatting with friends and sharing meals with his neighbors. He enjoys making new friends as long as they are kind, respectful, and “don’t say bad words.” The community at HNS is what keeps him coming back.

Antonio has formed meaningful relationships with HNS staff, as well. “They really care about us,” he says. He appreciates HNS’ efforts to truly understand and honor his community and is grateful for all the ways HNS has changed his life for the better.

Antonio shares, “I went through very difficult times, but with the help of HNS, they’ve lightened my load.” His diabetes and inability to walk long distances have become a major burden on him, but HNS provides valuable resources to alleviate his struggles. When he comes to HNS, his worries lessen.

Shannon & Gwenny’s Story

Sun, 28 Oct 2018 18:50:37 GMT

Kid’s Place feels like a home away from home for their daughter. They can tell the staff genuinely cares about their family.

Joseph and Shannon have always known their daughter Guinevere was special. Life did not start easy for her, though, and doctors told them she might struggle to ever learn at a “normal” rate.

Last year, they had to stop service with a speech therapist despite great progress because the family switched from Medicaid to private insurance and could not afford the new copay. They were at a loss and posted on Facebook for recommendations. That is when they heard about Kid’s Place—House of Neighborly Service’s Child Development and Treatment Center.

They enrolled Guinevere and received a scholarship to help cover costs. They reflect that it feels like she has been here forever because of all the difference the last 7 months have made. She went from being completely nonverbal to speaking in complete sentences thanks to work with our partners at the Harry Jersig Speech and Hearing Center of Our Lady of the Lake University. She is constantly singing the songs she learns in school; her favorite is “Rain, Rain, Go Away.” Getting to spend her days in a structured environment has also led to great improvements in her behavior. Constructive, specific feedback from staff has given them the confidence to keep up the work at home.

Joseph and Shannon are amazed by the quality of care and education their daughter receives. They love that the teachers never doubt the capabilities of their students. What means the most, though, is that Kid’s Place feels like a home away from home for their daughter. They can tell the staff genuinely cares about their family. Since Kid’s Place is a nonprofit program, they are also able to benefit from additional services like parenting classes. Shannon in particular has really enjoyed this opportunity and tries to never miss a class!

We agree that Guinevere is special and our dedicated staff has proven that she can outperform doctors’ initial expectations. We cannot wait to see what the future holds for this incredible family.