SAN ANTONIO, Texas--Volunteers from the 410th Contracting Support Brigade, Fort Sam Houston, Texas, demonstrated their commitment to service by serving meals to almost 250 homeless men, women and children at the Haven for Hope transformation center here Feb. 11.
This service is part of the brigade's community outreach program where several volunteer opportunities to help within the local community are offered throughout the year, according to Sgt. 1st Class April Johnson, contracting specialist, 916th Contingency Contracting Battalion, Fort Sam Houston. The 410th CSB has also partnered with Meals on Wheels and Habitat for Humanity to help members of the San Antonio community.
Johnson has been the driving force behind each of these events since her arrival and has made it her initiative to bring volunteerism to the forefront of 410th's consciousness.
"The reason I volunteer is because it brings me great joy to help others in need," said Johnson. "I am not by any means the richest person, but I do know that I am truly blessed for the things I do have and I realize that they can be taken at any time."
"Our service members are a big asset to the shelters here," said Col. William Sanders, 410th CSB commander. "I appreciate how so many of them volunteer and give up their early morning weekends to give to the needy in San Antonio."
Johnson said several members of the brigade regularly return to the transformation center to lend a hand wherever needed. To them, volunteering at a homeless shelter, a food bank or a soup kitchen doesn't only help the needy, but it can also remind them how fortunate they are to have each other.
"Performing community service helps foster a relationship with the San Antonio community and build esprit de corps within the unit. I was grateful for the opportunity to spend time with the volunteers and assist others during this event," Sanders said. "It was a humbling experience for all of us, and I'm thankful to be part of such a generous group of volunteers."
Johnson added, "In today's economy, the face of homelessness has changed and now it can be our family, friends and neighbors who become homeless. If I can make a difference in someone else's life by giving a little bit of me then I definitely have made a difference."
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