Volunteer Programs Houston

Radio Stations Celebrate "Day of Hope" on Houston Air Waves

Thursday, January 26, 2012 by Scott Arthur

This week Star of Hope has three good reasons to “Thank God It’s Friday.” Starting early Friday morning 93Q (92.9), The Eagle (107.5) and Country Legends (97.1) will each broadcast two commercials an hour featuring testimonies of men, women and children that were homeless and have had their lives changed by the recovery programs at Star of Hope.

Cox Media, 93Q, Country Legends, The Eagle

This “Day of Hope” was inspired by a recent Community Partnership between Cox Media Group and the Houston homeless mission. The main goal is to help listeners realize that our city’s Homeless are not necessarily represented by the man at the intersection with a sign but more likely by the more than ten thousand “Hidden Homeless” ….women, children, men, families sleeping in cars or camp grounds or abandoned buildings … too proud to seek help yet too desperate not to.

Faith-based Star of Hope provides shelter, food, spiritual guidance, life changing recovery programs and day services to about 1,100 of these men, women and children EVERY DAY.

Friday, tune into your favorite Cox radio station to hear real life testimonies and find out more about how our 105 year old organization helps God change lives.

For more information visit sohmission.org, call 713-748-0700 or go to the Star of Hope Mission on Facebook.

Ways to Give Houston
Volunteer Opportunities Houston

A Banner Year Thanks to YOU!

Wednesday, December 28, 2011 by Hank Rush

You have helped restore almost 7,000 lives in Houston in 2011

As I am sitting here in my office, taking a deep breath and thinking back over this past year, I am amazed and humbled at all God has done in our community through the Star of Hope.

Record numbers of people have become homeless in Houston this past year, and as a result, Star of Hope has served more individuals than ever before in our 104 year history this year. Immediate needs met, safety, a place to sleep, clothes, showers, food, a note card of encouragement from a volunteer, a counselor and longer term programs to help begin putting life back together…all offered to each one in an environment filled with the love of Christ.

I am reminded about the young man in his 20’s who graduated from our Men’s Development Center this past summer, who had been left on the doorsteps of a hospital in his home town when he was only 6 weeks old because his mom didn’t want him. He had struggled with the sense that he didn’t belong or have a home his whole life. But here at Star of Hope he “came home” to Christ and found new purpose and his eternal identity in Him. Or the young 15 year old girl, who came to us with her family, two years behind in school because of all the moves the family had made the prior couple of years. Through our Stars of 2morrow Teen Ministry this young lady caught up in school and graduated from high school in the top 7.5% of her class this past spring. She is at the University of Texas this Christmas on a scholarship! And there are hundreds of other stories just like these, inspiring and life-changing, all because Houstonians like you CARE.

A month ago, the children of the Yellowstone Academy Middle School held a fundraiser for Star of Hope, and together raised $176.28 to give to children less fortunate than themselves here at the Star of Hope. These precious children, whose families’ average income is about $10,000 per year, came on a school bus and joyfully brought us their Christmas gift.

Yesterday, a young man named William rode a bus to downtown from a west Houston grocery store where he works as a sacker, then took a train from downtown to the Medical Center, then a cab to Star of Hope, to bring his $200 gift he had been saving up. He does not have a car, but wanted to bring his Christmas gift in person this year somehow, some way.

So I am humbled at how God uses it all…our gifts, our volunteer hours, our staff and facilities, and most of all, our prayers to change and restore lives from the depths of despair, to heartfelt joy once again.

From all of us to you, thanks for making this all possible! We look forward to serving our community, with you, in 2012.

Discover ways to help with Star of Hope Mission.
Visit Volunteer Opportunities Houston and Donation Opportunities Houston today!

Like Star of Hope on Facebook and see more pictures from 2011.

Hope for Christmas

Monday, December 12, 2011 by Erika Wise

As we celebrate Christmas, let us know that our hope is not found in man, the gifts others give, but in the 'baby' that came so that we may truly know the hope of man!

Christmas is a joyous time for many...but, for those struggling financially and emotionally, it can leave them with little or no hope. The Star of Hope--its staff and programs--are here to show guests and clients of the true Star of Hope--Jesus Christ.

For nearly 20 years, we have had the Adopt-a-Family Christmas Program for those who have left our programs and may be struggling their first year or two out on their own. Church groups, families, and companies call asking to help make Christmas special...it is no small miracle that these families and individuals who need help receive bountiful blessings of gifts, support and love from perfect strangers!!

This week, I received an email from someone in need. Here is some of what she wrote:

"I was married on October 5th, 2011...just a few months ago. We found out I was pregnant shortly thereafter...my "husband" told me on November 5th that he no longer loved me, and did not want to be married to me...I was living the fairytale until we moved into our home just a week after being married...He has no concern now for me, Clayton (her 8 year old son), or our unborn child...I am completely in a bind and don't know what to do about Clayton's Christmas. The reason that I am so concerned is that I have always been able to provide him a very good Christmas from Santa. It breaks my heart that because I put my trust in a man my son is now suffering."

This story is all-too-common. Mothers and their children are spending Christmas looking for a safe place to stay...someone to care...some hope...

Through the generosity and gifts of donors and volunteers...*Sherry and Clayton--and, her unborn child--will be blessed with gifts and love this Christmas.

I think back to that first "Christmas" night...a pregnant woman carrying the HOPE of the world...And, that is what we celebrate this time of year.

"The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him 'Immanuel'--which means 'God with us.'" Matthew 1:23

*Names changed to protect privacy/confidentiality.

Discover ways to give at Donation Opportunities Houston.

104 Thanksgivings at Star of Hope

Thursday, November 17, 2011 by Scott McKinley

I was just thinking about the fast approaching holidays. Thanksgiving is a week away and Christmas is just around the corner. I’m looking forward to spending next Wednesday afternoon with homeless and recovering men at the Star of Hope Men’s Development Center in downtown Houston. Wow… this will be the 104th year that Thanksgiving meals have been served at Star of Hope!

This picture was taken during the Thanksgiving meal at Star of Hope in 1955.

Even in the early days, Star of Hope has always been more than a soup kitchen and place to sleep. I’m honored to be a part of such an enduring legacy. I’m thankful for Star of Hope’s incredible staff, faithful volunteers and generous donors who continue to make a Star of Hope a place of refuge and recovery in our city.

To learn more, visit More Than A Soup Kitchen Houston. You may be surprised at the depth of the programs offered at Star of Hope Mission.

Have you heard about Volgistics?

Wednesday, September 28, 2011 by Elizabeth Hatler

Volgistics. No, it is not an alien species that inhabits some far away galaxy in the latest chapter of Star Trek. It is the awesome new database Star of Hope is using to manage our volunteer program. Volgistics means the Volunteer Services team can better serve our volunteers, programs and clients.

All volunteers are now required to register online prior to their scheduled project date. When volunteers arrive for their project, the sign-in process will be faster and volunteers will spend less time in the reception area. Within a few months, touch screen kiosks will also be available for High Impact Volunteers to log in and out.

Moving forward, Volgistics will exponentially increase our capacity for information management. Everyone on the Volunteer Services team now shares the same information. If one team member is unavailable, another team member will still be able to help.

We receive many calls from volunteers requesting service hours for college applications, resumes and financial records. Once registered in Volgistics, volunteers are able to access the Star of Hope Volunteer Center from any computer to review their contact information and service log. Even if volunteers served as part of a group, hours will be recorded for each individual group member.

The bottom line - advanced volunteer registration allows us to better identify every person working in our facilities and provide a more secure environment for all of our clients.

Volgistics has amazing capabilities…the changes are exciting and we are only beginning! But electronic data management will never replace the importance of building strong relationships with all of our volunteer partners. We are grateful for the unique gifts, talents, abilities, interests and compassion of each volunteer and continue to be awed by the way God knits us all together to meet the needs of Houston’s homeless men, women and children.

Volunteer and help Houston's homeless with Star of Hope Mission.
Visit Volunteer Opportunities Houston.

Learning to Serve with Gratitude

Thursday, June 30, 2011 by Troy Williams Sr.

Not only do Star of Hope Alumni (ACTS - Alumni in Community, Transformation & Service) return to the campus to serve and give back, they build relationships and enhance the spiritual life of programmers in a number of ways off campus as well.

Alumni conduct weekend spiritual retreat camps.
They organize many types of fellowships such as bowling fund raisers, acts of service outings, and sporting events to name a few.
Several Alumni pick up current SOH programmers and take them to churches, ministry events and family outings.

A hand full of our alumni have been certified by Texas Department of Criminal Justice to return to prisons to minister to inmates. Each of the alumni who have received certification have felonies and have served time in prison. The good news is that they have already returned on several occasions to give back to inmates behind prison walls.

This year the alumni were privileged to coordinate and participate in the Annual Cancer Relay Walk in Conroe, Texas. The alumni labored 24-hours around the clock and ministered to about three thousand people. The most exciting part however was the fact that they enlisted over 20 programmers from the Star of Hope Men's Development Center to serve in this event. These men manned prayer stations, set up tents and vendor stations, and passed out Christian information about salvation. During this event, ACTS in Worship set a precedent by providing Christian music for the first time ever during this particular Cancer Relay Walk.

As you can see, the alumni not only want to give back to the men in the program. They want to give back to those who have needs that are free and even those the locked up throughout Houston also. The alumni are consciously aware that they have been tremendously blessed by the generous gifts of donors and volunteers of the Star of Hope. "Because they thought enough of us to give their time, talent, and resources, I want to give back to others who may have needs throughout Houston. I was spiritually transformed and socially transitioned to a better state because of their generosity. I just have an Attitude of Gratitude," stated one alumnus.

The Star of Hope Alumni, ACTS Ministry would love to host a Spiritual Recovery Retreat, conduct a Worship & Praise Service or just help you on a service project on one of their Servant Saturdays. Contact acts@sohmission.org to get started.

The Star of Hope staff is boasting in the Lord about the great works that the Star of Hope Alumni Ministry is doing in Jesus name. We pray that they continue to grow spiritually and continue to service Houston and surrounding area.

Learn more about ACTS at Star of Hope Mission - Supporting Houston Ministries

Great Testimony - What God Does at Star of Hope

Thursday, April 28, 2011 by John Mills

Hey, do you want to read a really great, meaningful testimony from a Star of Hope Mission former Client? This testimony was given at the 2011 Annual Star of Hope Banquet (in February), before 1,700 persons. When a person comes from domestic violence or homelessness, to be able to reclaim their life, we celebrate the miracle. If you ever wanted to know what we attempt to do here at Star of Hope, please read this brief testimony. Thank you for caring enough to read this person’s personal story:

If it weren’t for Star of Hope, I would not have a story worth sharing. Anyone who has ever lived with domestic violence can tell you that it is a kind of misery that chips away at the core of who you are and everything you thought you would be. That’s how it was for me. At first it was about control. I was told what I could wear, where I could go. I completely lost track of myself. Eventually things escalated. Living in a constant state of fear became normal for me. On one occasion, I was hospitalized, because I was struck so hard that I fell into a coma.

People often wonder why anyone stays in an abusive relationship. I stayed because i didn’t know how to get out or where I would go. I just wanted to keep a roof over my children’s heads and provide for them.

When I couldn’t take it any longer, I made a plan to leave, quietly, without raising suspicion. I moved around living with friends and family, and for a while, in a hotel. It was difficult, but better than being beaten.

Then someone told me about Star of Hope, a homeless shelter. When I arrived at the Transitional Living Center in January of 2007, all I had in the world was two bags of clothes and my two children . I had no money, no job, no home, no self-esteem, and no hope. I committed myself to the program and let the process do its transforming work. The classes opened my mind to the world of possibilities, and the staff was always there supporting me, building me up, and surrounding me with the word of god. They genuinely wanted me to realize my heart’s desire. Who knew that i was on my way to accomplishing a thirteen-year old dream of going to college to become a chef?

For me, cooking is a way of expressing love. When I was a child, my family would demonstrate how much they loved one another by gathering around the table over a great meal. So when I was in high school, I took a course in Hospitality Management. It included engineering, cooking, housekeeping, and front desk. But it was working in the kitchen that fascinated me. When I learned how to make flowers out of fruit, I thought, “This is it!” The dream was planted. But a dream needs an opportunity.

The Lord led me to Star of Hope where I got the tools, skills, and confidence I needed to pursue my dream and be ready when opportunity knocked. I stepped out in faith, in honor of God, and His purpose for my life and enrolled at the Le Cordon Bleu Culinary School, in Scottsdale, Arizona. Last year, I was invited to go to Dublin, Ireland, to do my externship in event planning. In May of this year (2011), I will go back to Scottsdale to walk with my class, making me the first person in my family to graduate from college.

I have experienced an amazing journey. I have taught my children a valuable lesson in motivation, perseverance, and faith in God. Star of Hope is where dreams transition into reality.

--- Marquette

I COULD ADD SOME WORDS HERE, BUT I THINK THAT MARQUETTE HAS SAID IT ALL!... And anyone who prays for Star of Hope, or volunteers or donates clothing or funding, can share in this AMAZING MIRACLE of a reclaimed life! God Bless.

Learn how you can get help or give help at Domestic Violence Shelters Houston

Exciting Changes for Star of Hope's Volunteer Services Team

Tuesday, April 26, 2011 by Elizabeth Hatler

Stephanie McMath joined Star of Hope's Volunteer Services team last fall - just in time to work with all of our holiday volunteers. From the beginning, we knew her time with us wouldn't be long. Her temporary assignment was scheduled to end right after Christmas and she already had big plans for the future. Stephanie, who has lived abroad and traveled much of her life, has a real heart for people of all cultures. Her dream is to become truly fluent in Spanish while teaching English to the people in Argentina.

Stephanie did an awesome job during our busiest time of the year and immediately built strong relationships with many of our volunteers. We were thrilled when she agreed to work a little longer while she prepared to move. I left work with a heavy heart the day she told me she had purchased a non-refundable plane ticket. The time passed quickly and tomorrow is Stephanie's last day.

When asked what memories she will take away from Star of Hope, Stephanie talked about the hearts of our volunteers, "There's a desire to help and contribute that's really inspiring. It's just so special. It's going to leave a mark. You can't work here and not be touched. God is working here and you can't ignore it."

Although sending Stephanie off on her new adventure is bittersweet, we are very excited to welcome Courtney Hill to our team. Courtney brings many wonderful gifts, talents and experience to the table, including experience in volunteer program management. When asked why she enjoys working with volunteers, Courtney said, "Volunteers are the most selfless, giving people. I love how they restore my faith in humanity." As our newest volunteer liaison, Courtney joins Julia Peterlin, Billie Tully and me in meeting the needs of our mission through the incredible volunteers God brings through our doors.

Please pray with us as we ask God's blessings on Stephanie's new life in Argentina and Courtney's work here at Star of Hope. These two amazing women are going to accomplish great things for His kingdom as they joyfully minister to others right here at Star of Hope and in places faraway.

Volunteer with Star of Hope Mission.
Discover volunteer opportunities of interest to you at Community Service Volunteers Houston.

Star of Hope Featured in Local "Secret Millionaire" Taping

Tuesday, March 8, 2011 by Scott Arthur

Popular radio personality Dana Tyson (Sunny 99.1) was asked by the ABC network to produce a "local" version of the new national reality TV hit Secret Millionaire. The national version features a millionaire who goes undercover doing homeless volunteer work in a charitable institution. At the end of the show - the "volunteer", moved by the charity and love that he is surrounded with - reveals himself and announces that he is donating to charitable organizations. He then writes a stunned staff a large check.

In the local version, Dana and her camera crew went to a Houston Emergency Shelter - the Star of Hope Women & Family Emergency Shelter. Under the guise of taping a program called "a day in the life of a DJ" Dana joined volunteers preparing and serving lunch for about 100 homeless women and children. A few hours later - as the staff was cleaning up - Dana announced that she was so taken by the hard work and dedication of the volunteers that she felt compelled to help out financially as well. She then presented Star of Hope with a $2500 check from the ABC Network.

Watch the "final cut' of this great video:

Learn more about Star of Hope Mission and Homeless Services Houston

A Cozy Movie Premiere

Tuesday, March 1, 2011 by Andrew Holmes

Sometimes, I get a chance to get out of my normal day to day IT world and get to help out on video. A few months back one of our wonderful donors/volunteers, Cookie Joe, and her business partner, Tran Pham Rich , (owners of Cookie Joe's School of Dancin' located in Sugar Land, Texas) donated the money to rebuild and equip our intake center at the Women & Family Emergency Shelter. The name of the intake center is Place of Grace and one of the new features is a large flat screen television that families and homeless ladies, who are seeking services can sit and watch. The television is there to show the potential guests all the many programs and services that Star of Hope Mission offers to help them understand who we are and how much we want to help them.

Yesterday, after completing a video compilation of various elements I took the DVD over to test and play it for the first time at Place of Grace. I was joined by a homeless lady who I did not think was paying any attention to the video. She, like countless others, was just looking for a place that would take her in and give her some relief from the Houston streets. As the video progressed through all the various ministries of Star of Hope , she looked over at me and said that she had no idea that Star of Hope did so many things. I sat and explained a few details to her about what she had seen, all the while hoping she was inspired to become a part of the Star of Hope family and be a life changed, a life restored.

Learn more about Star of Hope and Philanthropy Opportunities Houston.

Because You Love

Thursday, February 17, 2011 by Hank Rush

“Star of Hope in Houston Texas, You're truly changing lives, not with lip service but with hope, love & opportunity, amazing job. Thank You!” @LeighAnneTuohy

These words were posted on Twitter last Saturday by LeighAnne Tuohy, following Star of Hope’s Annual “Because You Love” Banquet the night before. It was our best attended banquet ever with 1700+ donors, corporate sponsors and community partners in attendance. Sean and LeighAnne Tuohy, the couple who inspired the movie “The Blind Side”, were our guest speakers.

This week, we are hearing stories from those in attendance who were touched in a special way by the evening’s activities. We always work to educate and inspire. We want to educate folks on what homelessness is, who it is currently affecting in Houston, and how they can help. And we seek to inspire through videos and live testimonies of clients of Star of Hope… who have seen their lives completely turned around by the power of God’s love and by the opportunity they receive to start a new life while at Star of Hope.

The number of homeless families in our community doubled in just one year, from 2009 to 2010. With your help in 2010:

Star of Hope’s family of ministries graduated 46% more clients from our programs
44% more completed and were awarded high school equivalency GEDs
40% more Clients found jobs, than in 2009
We also were excited to announce that during 2010 we saw 629 households restored into independent living in the Houston community

All of this could not have been done without YOU, “The Star of Hope Family”…our donors, volunteers, church friends, partner service providers and corporate supporters.

Thanks for all you do in the many individual ways you serve along side of us at Star of Hope. And if you’d like more information, visit www.sohmission.org right now and find out how you can become involved in this exciting ministry in our city!

Get involved with Star of Hope Mission at Philanthropy Houston and Volunteer Jobs Houston.

25 Degrees in Houston

Thursday, February 3, 2011 by Hank Rush

It doesn’t come often, but we’re all finding ourselves in 25 degree weather and on our own “Cold Weather Alert” this week! Heavy coats, covered plants, rolling power outages…and rain and snow on the way before the weekend. Just a short walk from our car to the door for us...but can you imagine what it’s like for those who are on the streets?

Star of Hope is here for the homeless of Houston, and despite our own rolling power outages, our staff is working hard to accommodate and help the overflow crowds who are coming in for help. This is a great opportunity for us to introduce them to the many programs and services that can help them turn their lives around, and begin again. Take a look at some of the efforts that are underway!

We are grateful for the men and women who have made the decision to seek shelter and hope in our facilities, but our hearts are still with the ones on the streets tonight who have not yet reached out to Star of Hope.

Learn more about how you can help Houston's homeless men, women and children with Star of Hope Mission. Visit:
- Donation Opportunities Houston
- Volunteer Opportunities Houston
- Urgent and Ongoing Needs

Technology and Innovation

Friday, January 21, 2011 by Andrew Holmes

I would like to cover some technology topics in this blog as it relates to charities and missions. Before an organization of any size can leverage technology successfully I believe first and foremost in today’s economy an organization has to promote a culture of innovation and change. The traditional model of growth, especially in the not-for-profit world, addresses growing complexities of operations and increasing amount of activity by adding labor dollars to the budget and beginning the burdensome process of hiring and retaining employees. Now, employees are great, and most of us are in the “people helping” business so it requires dedicated staff to minister to the needs of your population. The issues arise when we take these people and have them spend much of their time doing task that support processes that have not been looked at carefully with an eye for technology and innovation.

The first step to change is identifying what is happening now. When you ask for a report from one of your programs, how does it get produced? Do your case workers and counselors have to gather post-it notes , interpret a volunteers handwriting, and work all night to make something look pretty and hopefully close to accurate? Or do they click a button and send you a link to a report that’s easily read and customizable? Its important to identify how things get done.

It would be worth it, if you haven't done it in a while, to set aside 2011 to document what is going on. Start with the core departments like finance, development and work your way to the maintenance department. Once things are identified the proverbial low hanging fruit will stand out and you can make simple changes that have a high impact. Eventually you will want someone, be it a volunteer, a group of grad students that are working on a project or a hired professional to help you identify the innovative changes you need to make that will help you spend your precious payroll dollars wisely.

Here are some helpful links
Technology for non-profits www.techsoup.org
Documenting your processes http://www.ibm.com/developerworks/library/ar-procdoc/

Learn more about Star of Hope Mission at Volunteer Jobs Houston or Supporting Homeless Shelters Houston

Volunteer Gregg Lattier, a Houston Texan Community Quarterback

Tuesday, January 11, 2011 by Elizabeth Hatler

“Volunteering at Star of Hope is a demonstration of my faith in the LORD,” is how Gregg Lattier explains his ongoing commitment to serve Houston’s homeless men, women and children through his partnership with our mission. Gregg attended one of the first orientation classes I held for perspective new volunteers almost 13 years ago - and he enthusiastically continues to touch hundreds of lives by sharing his compassionate wisdom and love for Jesus Christ.

Most Friday mornings, Gregg teaches stress management to clients in the Personal Development program at Star of Hope’s Transitional Living Center. Several clients describe his class this way:

· “Dr. Gregg Lattier really inspired me when he taught the class on values. He provide me with information that I have had never heard before.”

· “Dr. Gregg Lattier has made me think, learn and laugh during his classes….I wish that more teachers were like him!”

· “What a great stress management instructor! Mr. Lattier gave us great methods on how to live life stress-less rather than stressful. He teaches people the true meaning of laughter out loud! He showed me how to embrace what others might think is impossible.”

Although Gregg is at home in the classroom, he loves to travel around the globe. Christmas break found him in Equatorial Guinea, Gabon and Cameroon and he plans to visit Asia during spring break. While traveling, Gregg, who teaches business classes at Lee College and is a member of the United States Coast Guard Reserves, has the opportunity to build relationships and share the Gospel while living off of the local economy. He travels light with only a backpack!

When the Houston Texans beat the Jaguars during their last home game on January 2^nd, Gregg was backpacking somewhere through Africa. However, during the game he was recognized as a recipient of the Houston Texans 2010 Community Quarterback Award and Star of Hope will receive a generous donation in his honor.

Congratulations on this prestigious award, Gregg, and thank you for your many years of dedicated service to our mission! We are grateful to you and the many other faithful volunteers God sends through our doors.

Read more about Gregg and how you, too, can help the homeless in the Star of Hope's January Newsletter, The Light.

Community Service Houston

Blessed Beyond Measure

Monday, January 10, 2011 by Troy Williams Sr.

"I was Blessed Beyond Measure.” That is the testimony of one of hundreds of volunteers at Star of Hope Mission. Many of our volunteers come out to serve and bless the lives of Star of Hope constituents. However, they often times echo the same quote above.

One of the greatest joys that I have experienced at Star of Hope is working alongside volunteers when they serve through the Men’s Development Center Spiritual Life Program. Seeing the glow in their eyes, the bright smiles on their faces, and the enthusiasm in their service to God brightens up my day in the Lord and stirs me to give more of myself.

If you, your church or organization is looking to pick up the pace on fulfilling your life’s purpose this year, you should consider volunteering your time and talent at Star of Hope. You will be "Blessed Beyond Measure" as you spark up some spiritual stamina. You will be able to spiritually impact the lives of others as God is blessing you.

The Spiritual Life Program of the Men’s Development Center is looking for individuals who can present God’s Gospel in Spirit and Truth in creative ways during our evening Chapel Services. We welcome creative arts, plays, dance, drama, musicals, etc. If you can present God’s Creative Gospel in Spirit and in Truth, please contact us.

Chapel is held seven days a week from 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM. We welcome God’s creative genius at work in and through your life.

Please click Volunteer Jobs Houston to find out how you can get involved with Star of Hope.

Call Center Volunteers Helping Houston's Homeless

Sunday, January 9, 2011 by John Mills

Recently, I had a chance to visit with one of our volunteers. He and a team from his employer have been involved in our new volunteer Call Center which started in November.

For several years our executive staff at Star of Hope, one of Houston’s Emergency Shelters, has been concerned about how we can shorten access time for homeless men, women and their families in need. So we started a phone bank! The Call Center is staffed in part by volunteers, providing a new volunteer opportunity in Houston.

This gentleman shared with me that he and the other team members were excited that serving in this volunteer role has required that they learn much more about all the services that we provide. Star of Hope is not just a soup kitchen in Houston…we offer emergency services such as a safe dry bed, a change of clothing, a warm meal, and even offer a transitional program if that is what is needed.

The major item that interested me was that he stated that the employees serving in this phone bank project have really come together, and they understand more about the needs of the homeless and what is being done here at Star of Hope! It touched my heart and reminded me that when we give something of our selves, we often receive a benefit!

I also wanted to report to you that, because many of you responded to the opportunity to make a financial donation, WE MADE OUR DECEMBER AND YTD BUDGET! I wanted to thank each of you who recognized the donation opportunity and followed through (like the volunteer mentioned above). I hope and pray that you and your family will be blessed throughout 2011!

Visit Star of Hope Mission to learn more about Volunteer Jobs Houston and how you can
get involved as a Call Center Volunteer.

Merry Christmas from Star of Hope's Christmas Workshop!

Sunday, December 19, 2010 by Elizabeth Hatler

Aaron's at Star of Hope's Christmas Warehouse Merry Christmas from the Star of Hope Christmas Workshop! As volunteers get Christmas gifts ready for the many homeless men, women and children who come through our doors, it’s like having the North Pole right here in Houston, Texas! Thanks to our good friends at ProLogis, we have an awesome space that has become Santa’s Workshop! Volunteers are busy sorting donated gifts, selecting something special for each client, wrapping the presents and grouping family gifts. When finished, several thousand Christmas gifts will be delivered to Star of Hope programs just in time for Christmas Day!

This is a huge undertaking that could never be accomplished without the help of many special volunteers:

“It makes me feel thankful for what I have.” Kylie

“It’s a good way for me to get into the spirit of Christmas.” Kendall

“I like it because it’s faith- based.” Allyn

“Giving and volunteering were traditions growing up in our house. We didn’t really know any different. There were always extra stockings and gifts for those less fortunate. So now, it’s a tradition my husband and I have tried to pass along to our kids.” Joni

“It means a lot to help people who might not otherwise have a very nice Christmas.” Taylor

“We’ve been doing this for about 10 years and it gives you the opportunity to see what God intended Christmas to be.” Chuck

Thanks to the generosity of our donors and volunteers, the gifts are a tangible reminder to our clients of their value and worth; that others really do care; and that better days are ahead. For what is wrapped in bright red and green paper and tied up with bows is the very best, most precious gift of all – and that is new hope through Jesus Christ!

Learn how your group or company can get involved with Star of Hope and help Houston's homeless. Visit Community Service Volunteers Houston.

Willis Volunteers Staff Call Center and So Much More!

Sunday, December 19, 2010 by Elizabeth Hatler

Imagine what it must be like to be out on the streets with no place to call home. Frantically, you search for shelter and a safe place to fall asleep. That’s when you remember that someone told you about Star of Hope. In desperation, you put your last two quarters in the payphone, hoping with everything you have left inside that you can talk with someone, that you don't get a recording.

Although most of us are used to automated telephone systems, navigating menus can be a frustrating process. And if this is the only call you can make, it’s even worse.

At Star of Hope, our goal is for every caller to reach a “live” voice – to get the help and answers each caller needs and deserves. To accomplish this goal, we opened a call center that is staffed entirely by volunteers.

No one has taken a more active role in the call center than our friends from Willis of Texas, Inc. About 30 Willis employees staff both the morning and afternoon shifts every Wednesday. Thanks to Willis and other call center volunteers, each call is promptly answered by a friendly voice that’s filled with compassion. Once calls are answered, volunteers remain on the line until callers receive the help they need - even praying with callers. Volunteers are not interested in the number of calls they answer, but in delivering the best possible service. It is far more than simply answering the phone, it is a ministry!

Our friends at Willis have been very generous with their time, and yet, found a way to do even more during the holidays. In addition to volunteering in our kitchens and at the Christmas Workshop, they also raised $5,550 to purchase gifts for moms and dads at our Women & Family Emergency Shelter and men in the recovery programs at the Men’s Development Center. Not only will there be gifts for the children, but for the adults, too. No one has been forgotten!

Through friends like Willis, we see how God meets all of our needs – not only at Christmas, but throughout the year!

Learn how you can help Houston's homeless with Star of Hope. Visit Community Service Volunteers Houston.

Angels Call at Christmas!

Wednesday, December 15, 2010 by Hank Rush

Christmastime is such a fun and amazing time here at Star of Hope. Granted it’s the busiest time of the year for our staff, but what makes it so special is the way God works through this Sacred and Holy Season to touch lives all around us!

An “Angel” called me earlier this week, to tell me he wanted to bring a gift to Star of Hope for Christmas. He had bought a cashier’s check, because he doesn’t have any credit or a bank account, so he wanted to deliver it in person. As we talked, I learned he works at a grocery store here in Houston, and didn’t have a car, so he was planning to ride the bus to bring his check to us. I knew right then he was one of God’s special blessings we receive each year for the benefit of our Clients at Star of Hope! You see, he said, “I want to help those less fortunate than me!”

Every gift of your time or financial resources, or of prayers for our Clients, their children, and our Staff, are all “Angel Calls” right from the heart of God. And Christmas becomes Christmas all over again!

You know, I think even Jesus himself shows up here and there, and walks among us… bringing Joy to our Clients. You can see it in the Christmas Programs held here, all the gifts brought by caring Houstonians, toys, clothing, food, you name it…and for just a while, our “less fortunate” become the most blessed and happy people in Houston!

Thanks for helping out at Christmas, and allowing God’s love to flow through you. You are a true “Angel Call” for so many.

Help Houston's homeless with Star of Hope Mission by donating online at Charity Houston.
Visit Volunteer Jobs Houston to find volunteer opportunities of interest to you.

Read More "25 Days of Christmas Miracles"

Helping Houston’s Homeless Find The Brightest Light

Tuesday, December 7, 2010 by John Mills

During my eight years working for Star of Hope Mission, I have watched over and over as homeless clients move from virtually “no hope” with total dependence, to beginning their independent walk in a new life. Star of Hope is not just a Soup Kitchen in Houston! We offer Christian Ministries with such services as drug rehabilitation, emergency homeless services, parenting classes, career building classes, for homeless persons and for battered women, men and for families. We offer care for men, single women and for families at our three homeless shelters and transitional living centers.

Last week I got to meet a young woman who lived here at Star of Hope twelve years ago. When she came here, she was 4 years old, and she got into a ballet dance program offered by a volunteer. Her family got back on their feet and now she is married and has three beautiful children. She was present at the opening of our newly decorated Intake area at Star of Hope’s Women & Family Emergency Shelter. It was a real blessing to visit and to see how well she is doing now. She and her family had received a chance to get back on their feet, and they had taken it!

I hope that you weren’t ever homeless! But if you had been, wouldn’t it be great to know that there was a place, where people would listen to you, pray with you, cry with you, and try to meet your every need! Star of Hope is such a place!

Would you consider partnering with us, through offering a prayer for the less fortunate, and through making a contribution? You can go to Charitable Donations Houston to make a contribution.