By Luis Chacon

The Salesian Missionary Volunteer Program Unveiled at the Salesian Family Youth Center

In the spirit of our shared mission to serve the young and the needy, I am thrilled to share with you an inspiring experience that took place at the heart of our Salesian Family Youth Center. On a momentous day, July 26, we witnessed the tremendous impact of promoting the Salesian Missionary Volunteer Program and how it can be the gateway to nurturing the Salesian vocation across all expressions of our beloved Salesian Family.

The Salesian Missionary Volunteer Program stands as a beacon of hope, providing a platform for young individuals to actively participate in service and create a positive difference in the world. It is through this transformative journey of volunteerism that the seeds of the Salesian vocation find fertile ground to bloom.

Last Saturday, the Youth Center hosted a momentous event to raise awareness about the Salesian Missionary Volunteer Program. Our volunteers, filled with zeal and compassion, gathered to address one of the most pressing issues facing our community – hunger and homelessness. Together, we united in a common purpose – to extend a helping hand to those living on the streets and in dire need.

The response was overwhelming! The turnout of dedicated volunteers demonstrated the unwavering commitment of our Salesian Family to serve those less fortunate. It was heartwarming to see the young minds passionately embracing the Salesian spirit of loving kindness and genuine care for the marginalized.

Throughout the day, we witnessed how this program serves as an entrance door to the Salesian vocation. As we distributed food packages and spent time with the recipients, the volunteers experienced the fulfillment that comes from selfless service, and in turn, many felt a deep calling to continue serving and spreading the Salesian charism.

It is essential to recognize that volunteer opportunities not only benefit the recipients but also nurture the spiritual growth of the volunteers themselves. By actively engaging with the needy, they become living examples of Don Bosco’s teachings – forming leaders, compassionate mentors, and advocates for the marginalized.

As a Salesian Family, we must continue to seize every chance to promote volunteerism and engage the young in meaningful acts of service. It is through these experiences that they will discover the beauty and relevance of the Salesian vocation in their lives, wherever they may be called – be it as Salesians, Salesian Sisters, Salesian Cooperators, Past Pupils, or members of any of our expressions.

Let us embrace the Salesian spirit and encourage our youth to actively participate in volunteer opportunities. Together, we can unlock the potential of volunteerism as the entrance door to nurturing the Salesian vocation, spreading the light of Don Bosco’s love to the farthest corners of our communities.