Standing in the Gap

This year, a sudden gap in the Rotational Shelter schedule meant that guests were in danger of losing continuous shelter as they worked on their case plan goals. This potential crisis became an opportunity for faith communities to spring into action. Rotational Shelter Program Manager, Manolo Guillen, shares his experience seeing congregations step up as he served as the de facto Volunteer Coordinator during the gap.

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Stepping into the role of volunteer coordinator for the first time was a profound lesson in community. Facing the daunting task of securing two weeks of shelter and meals for nine guests—including a mother and her three children—we quickly realized that while the challenge was great, the spirit of community was greater.

This experience became a masterclass in grace and collaboration. I am deeply grateful to Dr. Renate Pilz for her unwavering generosity in providing breakfast and lunch for two weeks, and for connecting us to Sabrina Stern at Christ Lutheran. On incredibly short notice, they graciously opened their doors to host our guests for one week. Similarly, St. Michael’s Catholic Church contributed a generous donation that made it possible to host our guests the second week at America’s Best Value Inn.

The logistics were a true symphony of kindness. Darlene Truver and Sandy Boelter with St. Peter’s Lutheran were my pillars, coordinating overnight stays, transportation, and setup. With Michelle Whitney lending us partitions to Clark Guest, teaching us how to assemble them, and Pastor Josh from The Center Church mobilizing an impressive host of volunteers for nightly warm meals for two weeks, every need was met. Pastor Josh invited volunteers from other congregations. One first-time Rotational Shelter volunteer from Common(s) Church wrote, "Pastor Josh I want to thank you on behalf of all of us at Common(s) Church for connecting us to such a beautiful and life-giving opportunity! We had a blast cooking and getting to know our guests and hearing about the positive developments in their lives since connecting with you all. Thank you again for thinking of us"

I will take with me two snapshots of our time at the shelter that define the very heart of our mission. The first is a vibrant mosaic of sound: the pure, infectious laughter and joy of little children as they ran and played, their spirits unburdened for a moment within the safety of our walls.

The second is the profound calmness that settled over us the moment the lights went out. In that stillness, seeing nine souls—tummies filled and tucked under warm blankets—brought a sense of sacred peace. In those quiet hours, we weren't just volunteers; we became family.

In closing, I learned that leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about coming together to create a space where compassionate people can step up. To everyone who stepped up: you didn’t just provide a bed or a meal—you provided hope. I carry with me a much deeper appreciation for the labor of love that you all do.