Matthew “Moose” Lopez
Sports Editor
There’s an old saying in Texas: “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes.” The old adage alludes to dramatic weather changes the region has and those mood swings happened right as Mission Devine began its first day of projects.
While last year, the volunteers braved temperatures in the hundreds, this year they had to deal with the torrential downpour of rain. Chairman Todd Summers was inspired by the resiliency of their volunteers, despite the weather conditions. The skies may have been gray, but the volunteers’ spirit couldn’t have been brighter.
“We were a little concerned when it rained all day on our first workday, but the crews continued to push through and accomplish as much as possible,” Summers said. “I am always amazed by the hard work and dedication of the many volunteers who show up year after year. When you’re doing God’s work, obstacles don’t seem to get in the way.”
Some of the volunteers preferred the rain. Project leader Matthew Gonzales wasted no time heading to his job site, mapping out the dimensions of the deck he was building while becoming increasingly drenched. Gonzales welcomed the rain, explaining that the moistened dirt will speed up the digging portion of the project. Moreover he expressed his delight in not working under an unrelenting sun.
During Mission Devine’s 22nd year, they completed 35 projects throughout the community including: exterior painting, roof repairs, bathtub-to-shower conversions, handicap ramps and numerous mowing and yard work projects. Summers explained the organization’s annual work week has touched the lives of almost every family in Devine throughout the years. Whether it be personally, a family member, donating to the cause or becoming a volunteer, “chances are Mission Devine has had an impact on your life.”
“In many ways, it feels like a family reunion each year as we see the same friends, neighbors, and family members return to serve,” Summers said. “During the 15 years I’ve been involved, I’ve watched young children grow into young adults and I’ve watched those young adults come back with families of their own to volunteer.”
Besides serving those in need, Summers highlighted another positive aspect from Mission Devine: the unity that is established by the volunteers. Summers emphasized that beyond aiding those in need, Mission Devine fosters a powerful sense of community and connection among participating volunteers. They come from all walks of life and represent every age group. From families with young children and teens earning service hours to everyday residents, everyone has a blast together.
“At least once each year, the people of Devine come together, set aside their differences and unite with a common purpose: serving others,” Summers said.
Volunteers Jeff (left), Mike (middle), and Madison (right) were all smiles, even in the intense humidity. Mission Devine had over 100 volunteers through the first two days of the work week and sustained over 50 the rest of the week. Photo by Moose Lopez.
Sylvia Hawkins (far right) stands with Devine police officers after receiving a hydration donation for the Mission Devine work week.
Sylvia Hawkins (left) accepts a check from Lytle State bank President Randy Garcia (right) on behalf of Mission Devine.
Project leader Tony Alvarado has been serving with Mission Devine since 2014. Photo by Moose Lopez.