Our Volunteers: On the Front Lines of Care

Francis House runs on the generosity of roughly 130 volunteers and no paid staff. Here
are just a few of them.

Sunny recently relocated to Albuquerque in June 2024. With a degree in mathematics
and a career as a software engineer, Sunny is passionate about helping people,
particularly through the simple joy of sharing meals. Sunny values human connections and
has learned much from friends along the way. So far, Sunny is enjoying the journey and
the new home in ABQ.

Louise is a dedicated sign language interpreter with extensive experience working
with disabled children, teenagers, and seniors. She learned about Francis House from Fr.
Juan at church and is passionate about helping people, always eager to use her skills to
make a difference.

Father Iggy has recently returned from a mission in Bolivia. He dedicated much of his
time to working along the border in Juárez and El Paso. During his mission, he met Glenn
and expressed a desire to work at Trinity House. Fr. Iggy resides at St. Juan Diego
Friary and actively volunteers at both Trinity House and Francis House. He remains deeply
involved in migrant ministry, continuing his commitment to serving those in need.

Michael has been a dedicated volunteer at Francis House for over two decades,
inspired by his long-time friendship with Glenn, who founded the organization. Michael
and his wife, Megan Kamerick, became involved with Francis House after Megan began
volunteering there. Despite challenges such as the dissolution of their parish and
disillusionment with the Church due to ongoing scandals, Michael and Megan have found
true ministry in their work at Francis House. They are committed to providing food,
clothing, and basic necessities to those in need, while also supporting the pets that are
so vital to their clients’ well-being. Michael’s experience at Francis House has taught
him the importance of community and empathy, reminding him that anyone could find
themselves in need of help.

Paul has been actively involved with Francis House, a place he learned about from
Father Nathan. His time spent volunteering and bringing soup has been incredibly
rewarding, allowing him to live out the gospel in a meaningful and effective way.

Chris is a dedicated volunteer at Francis House, where he spends 2–3 hours each week
serving and interacting with people he might not otherwise meet. Initially joining the
Friday sandwich deliveries, Chris now volunteers on Mondays, finding the experience
rewarding and fulfilling. He admires the other volunteers, Glenn, and the guests,
appreciating the connections he makes, especially during his favorite task of handing out
wipes. This role allows him to engage in brief conversations, often leading to meaningful
eye contact and responses.

Karen has been a dedicated supporter of Trinity House for nearly 30 years, having
learned about Francis House through Glenn and Linda Swindle. Over the years, she has
referred numerous homeless guests to Trinity House, one of whom has become a close friend
and credits her stay there with Marcus and Chelsea for providing the care and support
needed to transition out of homelessness. Karen and her husband, Carlos, contribute by
making PB&J sandwiches monthly and volunteering on holidays. She is deeply inspired by
the commitment of Glenn and the volunteers at Francis House, who offer a hearty lunch of
soup, sandwiches, and other foods to unhoused visitors. Linda and now Stella have
effectively managed the role of volunteer coordinator, while Glenn and Stella have
collaborated with other organizations to provide additional services such as beverages,
meals, and clothing. The volunteer experience at Francis House is profoundly rewarding for
Karen, reinforcing the belief that “We are all One” and deserving of respect and kindness.

George has been a dedicated volunteer at Francis House in Albuquerque for the past two
years. His journey began when he joined a discussion group at Trinity House, where he
learned about the needs at Francis House. Glenn Rosendale, a member of the group, invited
George to volunteer, leading to a rewarding and spiritually enriching experience. Through
his work, George has grown in his faith, feeling a deeper connection with others and
experiencing the love of God more profoundly.

Yolanda is a dedicated volunteer at Francis House, a vital refuge for Albuquerque’s
most in-need citizens. Her journey with Francis House began when she noticed the daily
line of individuals seeking food and decided to get involved. Yolanda volunteers on
Sundays, serves on the board, and develops our website with her daughter, Marina.