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Volunteer Appreciation Month
April is Volunteer Appreciation Month—a time to pause and celebrate the hands and hearts that make our mission possible. At the core of everything we do to serve the most vulnerable in our community are the volunteers who show up, time after time, ready to serve.
Their dedication is the difference between an empty shelf and a full table, between feeling marginalized and being welcome into places where our guests can flourish and grow. We simply couldn’t do this work without them. They are the backbone of our efforts, and this month, we’re honored to spotlight a few of the incredible individuals who remind us what compassion in action looks like.
Ana Franco
Volunteer since 2013
Volunteering at FHM has been the most rewarding experience of my life. I feel so much of the Lord's love while serving. It’s a unique experience, unlike any other volunteer experience, and has made my relationship with the Lord closer. Volunteering at the Father's Heart is the highlight of my week. It has made me more empathetic with my community. I have met some incredible people who are my Saturday family.
I give thanks to Jesus; He allows me to be part of Father’s Heart!
Claire McNamara & Murray Smith
My wife and I have found volunteering at FHM very rewarding. It’s a wonderful environment where guests and volunteers of all faiths and none are welcome. The program seeks to satisfy our guests' immediate needs by providing a hot meal and groceries for the week while offering spiritual support for those seeking it.
We really feel part of the community, and we appreciate the relationships we have developed. Volunteering is also challenging at times. Seeing the poverty our fellow New Yorkers face is heartbreaking. This has made me more conscious of the needs and suffering of those around me and made me very grateful for the life I'm fortunate to live. Volunteering has also helped give me perspective week to week.
Finally, the volunteers and pastors at FHM have amplified my experience. They truly inspire me, and I'm humbled by their commitment and service. I would like to make a special mention of Pastor Marian: She is one of the most incredible people I’ve known, and I feel very lucky to have met her.
—MURRAY SMITH, Volunteer since 2016
My time at Father’s Heart has been an evolving journey of friendship and belonging. When I came initially, I often did my assigned task, looked for ways to optimize it, and gave everything I could.
However, as we progressed through COVID-19 and many of the challenges associated with operating during this time, my relationship with Father’s Heart changed significantly. The FHM volunteers have become an extended NYC family, providing love, support, and friendship through tough times and some great times. My friendships with people from different walks of life and the insights I’ve gained about the daily struggles many of our guests experience have changed me.
I’ve really enjoyed building relationships with the guests and changing how I engage with them. I have learned so much from our guests and feel incredibly lucky to have found this community.
—CLAIRE MCNAMARA, Volunteer since 2018
Magdala Joseph
Volunteer since 2023
I am fortunate to be a volunteer at The Father’s Heart. I truly believe I’ve found a community of selfless individuals who believe in the power of charity. It is the most organized place I’ve served. The form and function are astounding—the impact speaks for itself. Since being a volunteer here, I’ve become more compassionate.
Being part of this community will change your life.
