Service Learning & Volunteering

Since 2006, TLU has hosted two annual service days: H.O.T. Dogs (fall) and Day of The Dogs (spring). Typically, more than 300 students volunteer, along with faculty and staff, where they go out into the Seguin community and serve with local nonprofits.

Long-Term Community Partners

While TLU has many strong ties to local organizations, there are several long-term community partners our campus works with on a regular basis.

Those groups include Teatro de Artes de Juan Seguin, Eden Cross, Guadalupe Valley Habitat for Humanity, Seguin ISD, West End Neighborhood Project, Community Forum and MOVE Texas.

CSL Student Leaders

CSL student leaders assist faculty members with civic engagement classes, including communicating with community partners and assisting with tracking student engagement at their service sites.

Additionally, they serve as liaisons between the university and community. Each of the student leaders on the CSL team work our long-term partners in the Seguin community on volunteer recruitment, project logistics, and student reflections. They also support annual events like H.O.T. Dogs Day of Service, Day of the Dogs, Fair Trade Fair, CSL Volunteer Fair, WELCA Ingathering, etc.

At TLU, our general education curriculum requires all students to take three courses that have been designated as an Engaged Citizenship (Z) competency. Examples of these types of classes include:

Tutoring Together

Tutor children at Ball Early Childhood Center (3-4 years old) and Jefferson Elementary School (K-5th grades) to help them master skills, and be better prepared for their futures. Have fun and make a difference in the life of a child.

Water to Thrive works to bring clean, safe water to those in rural Africa. In partnership with the local community, TLU’s Water to Thrive student club holds an annual auction and dinner to raise money for wells. The student club is working on raising funds to build its 10^th well. Visit the Water to Thrive website to learn more or donate.

GUADALUPE COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY

Email: gchs2adopt@gmail.com

Phone: 830-372-2055

Address: 2484 N. State Hwy 46 Seguin, TX 78155

Website: www.gchshumane.com

The Guadalupe County Humane Society is a no-kill animal shelter run almost entirely by volunteers. They are a home for unwanted and misplaced animals, who thrive in giving animals a chance to live.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Help care for the animals (usually in the AM).
• Help with special events, such as Casino Night, Garage Sales, Photos with Santa, etc.
• Working at the front desk of the facility.

GUIDE DOGS OF TEXAS

Email: outreach@guidedogsoftexas.org

Phone: 210-366-4081

Address: 1503 Allena Dr., San Antonio, TX 78213

Website: guidedogsoftexas.org

Guide Dogs of Texas increases freedom, mobility, and independence for Texans who are blind by providing highly trained guide dogs. They are committed to personalized service and lifelong dedication to their clients and their guide dogs.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Puppy Sitting: Watch and care for puppies in training on a needed basis. Socialize and walk the puppies similar to a Puppy Raiser for a short-term commitment.
• Puppy Raising: Rear and socialize puppies from the age of 8 weeks to approximately 16-20 months in the volunteer’s home. The time requirement is 24/7 and the pup does accompany the Volunteer to work or school. This requires a long-term commitment ranging from 3 months to 18 months.

PATRIOT PUPS AND PONIES

Email: saveslaughterboundhorses@gmail.com

Phone: 830-708-1859

Address: 1900 FM-1104 Kingsbury, TX 78638

Website: www.patriotpupsandponies.org

Patriot Pups and Ponies has a mission to rescue abused and neglected horses and dogs, and connect them with Veterans, First Responders, and their families for mutual healing.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Attending to dog kennels and cleaning any necessary animal needs.
• Some other opportunities include socializing animals for adoption, moving or building shelter structures for the animals, etc.

SARA (SOCIETY FOR ANIMAL RESCUE AND ADOPTION)

Email: info@sarasanctuary.org
Phone: 830-401-0280

Address: 1050 Rawhide Rd., Seguin, TX 78155

Website: sarasanctuary.org

SARA (Society for Animal Rescue and Adoption) is a nonprofit, no-kill animal shelter and farm sanctuary. SARA leans on the kindness of donations monthly to care for and feed the 600+ animal residents

Volunteer opportunities include:

• There are no paid staff, SARA is in need of volunteers to assist with various shelter-related activities.
• Coordinate an end of semester drive to collect unwanted items for resale in support of the shelter.

SEGUIN ANIMAL SERVICES

Email: tkeene@seguintexas.gov (Tina Keene, Volunteer Coordinator)

Phone: 830-401-2335
Address: 555 Fred Byrd Dr., Seguin, TX 78155

Website: www.seguintexas.gov/departments/animal_services

The Seguin Animal Services Facility is owned and operated by the City of Seguin with support from our community. Seguin Animal Services exists to help protect the health, safety and welfare of both people and animals in our community. Their goal is to provide services to the public promptly and with professional precision tempered with compassion for those animals that cannot speak for themselves.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Seguin Animal Services provides public animal services for the City of Seguin and volunteers can work directly or indirectly with animals.

• The shelter is always in need of volunteers to help care for and interact with animals, and also help with facility cleaning and events.
• Several jobs include being a greeter, photographer/videographer, laundry attendant, administrative assistant, etc.

CASA WESLEY (LA TRINIDAD UNITED METHODIST CHURCH)

Email: revnramirez@tlu.edu

Phone: 830-379-1991

Address: 306 E. Gonzalez St. Seguin, TX

Website: m.facebook.com/La-Trinidad-United-Methodist-Church-268285626704562/

Casa Wesley provides free clothes to those in need. Open every other Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Sorting and folding clothes
• Finding clothing donations
• Supporting the English as a Second Language program, citizenship program, and English/Spanish conversation program

GOODWILL OF SEGUIN

Email: N/A

Phone: 210-924-8581

Address: 1431 E Court St., Seguin, TX 78155

Website: www.goodwillsa.org/about-us/volunteer-program

Goodwill Industries is an international nonprofit organization concerned with strengthening families and communities by providing training and job opportunities.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Sorting Legos by color or feature, hanging up clothes, scanning books to list, checking clothes for quality, photographing items, etc.

GUADALUPE REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER'S (GRMC) LIFE CARE PROGRAM

Email: ldelatorre@grmedcenter.com (Liliana de la Torre)

Phone: 830-401-7474

Address: 1215 E. Court Street, Seguin, TX

Website: www.grmedcenter.com/life-care-grmc

GRMC's LIFE Care Team walks with patients and families through difficult medical issues on an inpatient and outpatient basis. They provide supportive care to those with chronic illnesses and assist in completing advance directives through a guided conversation about patients' goals of care.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Facilitating discussions with families and patients.
• Completing advance directive forms (such as medical power of attorney and directive to physicians).

GUADALUPE VALLEY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

Email: programs@habitatgv.org (Alex Rojas, Program Assistant)
Phone: Office (830) 401-0422 & Work Cell (830) 865-6585
Address: 256 W Court St. Seguin, TX 78155
Website: habitatgv.org

Our mission: Guadalupe Valley Habitat for Humanity is an ecumenical Christian non-profit housing organization working in partnership with God’s people in need to build modest, decent and affordable houses without interest or profit, thereby witnessing God’s love in action. Seeking to put God’s love into action, Guadalupe Valley Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope.

Volunteer Opportunities include:

Construction volunteer: We are always looking for construction volunteers at our build site. Whether we are building walls or painting a house, all are welcome! No experience is necessary. All tools & safety materials will be provided. Wear comfortable clothing and close toed shoes you don't mind getting dirty. Email programs@habitatgv.org for more information.

ReStore volunteer: Our ReStore located in downtown Seguin is always looking for volunteers to help out around the store. Email programs@habitatgv.org for more information.

MOSAIC COMMUNITY GARDEN (MOSAIC CHURCH)

Email: taylor.mosaic@gmail.com

Phone: N/A

Address: 1201 W. Court St. Seguin, TX

Website: www.facebook.com/MosaicCommunityChurch

Mosaic is a progressive, ecumenical church that seeks to live out the dream of God in all of our relationships. The Mosaic Church has a thriving community garden across the street from TLU campus, as well as a huge labyrinth.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Landscaping of labyrinth area
• Support community garden efforts

MOVE TEXAS

Email: info@movetexas.org

Phone: 210-305-6226

Address: 1023 N Pine St., Bldg 6, San Antonio, TX 78202

Website: movetexas.org

MOVE Texas is a grassroots, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to building power in underrepresented youth communities through civic engagement, leadership development, and issue advocacy.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Canvassing, tabling, phone banking, block walking, and data entry, all for the purposes of getting young people registered and out to vote.

NEW BRAUNFELS FOOD BANK

Email: info@nbfoodbank.org

Phone: 830-327-6000

Address: 1620 S Seguin Ave., New Braunfels, TX 78130

Website: nbfoodbank.org

The New Braunfels Food Bank fights hunger and feeds hope through relief services and development programs. They believe that no child should go to bed hungry, adults should not have to choose between a hot meal and utilities, nor a senior sacrifice medical care for the sake of a meal. The New Braunfels Food Bank branch evolved from the San Antonio Food Bank’s client-choice pantry program, The Kitchen Table. Established to accommodate the growing need of hunger in the region, The Kitchen Table has offered nutrition education, benefits assistance, children’s programs, senior programs, financial literacy for years.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Serving in their client choice pantry.
• Helping provide a dignified experience for community shoppers by greeting, stocking shelves, cleaning stores, and loading cars with food.
• Additionally, volunteers can help prepare hot meals in the community kitchen, or harvest produce in their garden.

OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE FOOD PANTRY

Email: olgseg@satx.rr.com

Phone: 830-379-4338

Address: 409 W Krezdorn St., Seguin, TX

Website: www.seguinolg.com

Our Lady Food Bank receives donated food for distribution to the community. Volunteers usually sort food items into bags at 10:30 a.m. on Mondays.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Supporting the food pantry through donations
• Volunteering time to sort food items into bags

STEVE'S PANTRY

Email: info@grueneumc.org

Phone: 830-625-7200

Address: 2629 E. Common St. New Braunfels, TX

Website: www.grueneumc.org/ministries/steves-pantry

Steve's Pantry provides emergency food, clothing, laundry, and showers to those in need. They are open Monday/Thursday from 3:00-6:00pm and Tuesday/Wednesday from 10:00am-1:00pm. Items can be dropped off at the Pantry during operating hours.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Help with inventory of items
• Donate needed items, such as food, clothing, insect repellant, sunscreen, sleeping bags, laundry pods, dryer sheets, etc.

AMERICA READS

Email: rwesterfield@gvec.net (Rhonda Westerfield)
Phone: 830-379-0300

Address: N/A

Website: N/A

America Reads connects volunteers with students in the Seguin area elementary schools for one-on-one mentoring to increase student's reading skills and self-confidence.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Reading and mentoring with children in the Seguin area

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF SOUTH TEXAS (COMAL AND GUADALUPE COUNTIES)

Email: info@bigmentor.org
Phone: 830-777-7476

Address: 10843 Gulfdale St., San Antonio, TX 78216

Website: www.bigmentor.org/comal-guadalupe-counties

The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Texas is to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one mentoring relationships that change their lives for the better, forever. Volunteers should plan to commit to a mentoring relationship for at least one year, and plan to spend time with their matched mentee approximately one hour per month. Mentors receive training on how to connect with their mentee and all mentors must undergo a successful background check and interview.

Volunteer Opportunities include:

• Ongoing mentoring with a matched mentee

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF SOUTH CENTRAL TEXAS

Email: info@bgcsct.org

Phone: 512-805-3000

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1643, San Marcos, TX 78667

Website: www.bgcsct.org

The mission of the Boys & Girls Club of South Central Texas is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.

Volunteer Opportunities include:

• One-on-one mentoring with youth
• Helping with behind-the-scenes logistics

CASA OF CENTRAL TEXAS

Email: info@casacentex.org

Phone: 830-626-2272

Address: 1619 E Common St., Suite 301, New Braunfels, TX 78130

Website: www.casacentex.org

CASA of Central Texas serves Guadalupe, Hays, Comal, and Caldwell counties and advocates for abused and neglected children in the court system by recruiting, training, and supporting community volunteers. Their vision is that every child has the right to a safe, nurturing, permanent home. CASA is an acronym meaning "Court Appointed Special Advocates". CASA volunteers are screened, highly trained, and then appointed by judges to represent and advocate for a child's best interests in the child welfare system. Because they're sworn in, CASAs can speak to a variety of people (doctors, foster parents, teachers, etc.) to get an understanding of a child's situation and needs. They report back to the judge who heavily weighs their input when making decisions about a child's life. Sometimes CASAs are the only consistent person in a child's life, so their role is crucial to a child's long-term success.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Assisting in special events like fundraisers and advocate appreciation events.
• Create and implement clothing and school supply drives to benefit their children and families
• Serve as a Court Appointed Special Advocate

CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP BAPTIST CHURCH

Email: cfbcoutreach@aol.com (Pastor Leon Morris)

Phone: 830-534-6202

Address: 926 8th St., Seguin, TX 78155

Website: www.facebook.com/Christian-Fellowship-Baptist-Church-Seguin-TX-741575632526834/about/?ref=page_internal

Christian Fellowship Baptist Church is a loving, accepting, community of Christians striving together to bring more disciples to Christ. Every other Wednesday there is a youth gathering in which there is a meal, Bible study, and fun activities for school aged kids.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Supporting weekly youth gatherings
• Mentoring children

COMMUNITIES IN SCHOOLS (SOUTH CENTRAL TEXAS)

Email: info@cissct.org

Phone: 830-620-4247 x.17

Address: 161 S Castell Ave., New Braunfels, TX 78130

Website: www.cis-sct.org

Communities in Schools is a nonprofit organization that runs stay-in-school services and programming for at-risk youth. Their mission is to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Working with their Mentoring Program
• Helping at the CIS Thrift Store

D.A.R.E. PROGRAM

Email: dare@seguintexas.gov

Phone: 830-401-2386

Address: N/A

Website: www.seguintexas.gov/departments/police/d_a_r_e.php

D.A.R.E. stands for Drug Awareness Resistance and Education. The D.A.R.E. officers go into elementary schools and works with students to educate them about drugs, violence, and alcohol.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Teaching the awareness of drugs abuse to school students
• Assist with hosting several events, such as Halloween Safe House, National Night Out, 5K Moonlight Run, Blue Santa, Dare Graduations, Cops & Kids Picnic and the Cinderella Ball

DISCIPLINE ALTERNATIVE SCHOOL AT SAEGERT

Email: agraeber@seguin.k12.tx.us (Amy Graeber, Principal)

Phone: 830-379-1108

Address: 118 N Bowie Street, Seguin, TX 78155

Website: schools.seguin.k12.tx.us/page/111.Home

The Discipline Alternative School at Saegert is a school in Seguin for students who have struggled with disciplinary issues. The students attend the school anywhere from 10 to 35 days.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• help with group mentoring during school days
• life-skills development

GUADALUPE COUNTY CHILDREN'S ADVOCACY CENTER (GCCAC)

Email: cjaecks@gccac.net (Christine Jaecks, Community Outreach Coordinator)

Phone: 830-303-4760

Address: 265 Wetz, Seguin, TX 78155

Website: gccac.net/login

The GCCAC is a nonprofit agency serving children and families when there are allegations of child abuse and neglect, alongside our partners in law enforcement, Child Protective Services, prosecution, CASA, mental health professionals, and medical professionals. The GCCAC offers forensic interviews at the request of law enforcement and Child Protective Services for their investigations of child abuse and neglect. The GCCAC also provides family advocacy and counseling services to children and supportive family members - at no cost to them and continues to educate the community about child abuse and neglect.

• Volunteer opportunities include:
  
  Greeting families and children to welcome them to the center, playing games prior to and after their forensic interview, and making sure they have snacks and feel comfortable at the center
• Special events
• Becoming a radKIDS Volunteer to help teach a personal empowerment & safety program to children alongside Certified radKIDS Instructors

SEGUIN MANOR APARTMENTS

Email: seguinmanomgr@prosperahcs.org (Mary Rodriguez)

Phone: 830-303-1553

Address: 800 N 123 Bypass, Seguin TX 78155

Website: prosperahcs.org/portfolio-posts/seguin-manor-apartments

Seguin Manor is a low-income housing complex. Seguin Manor has an after-school program for elementary aged children from 3:45 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• help with games and activities in the after-school program

SEGUIN YOUTH SERVICES

Email: seguinyouthservices@yahoo.com

Phone: 830-401-0717

Address: 919 N Guadalupe St., Seguin, TX 78155

Website: www.seguinyouthservices.org

Seguin Youth Services is a unique investment in our youth, families, schools, neighborhoods, and community offering comprehensive services to reach academic success. Programs include life skills, tutoring and support, community service, family and parent support, substance abuse resistance, team building, and more.

Volunteer Opportunities include:

• Reading to students
• Serving as ongoing mentors
• Supporting a variety of programs, including welding, wood working, robotics, tutoring, and life skills

WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS ALAMO (WSA) YOUTH EMPOWERMENT SERVICES (YES)

Email: wioayouth@wsalamo.org
Phone: 830-629-2010 x.2610

Address: 1500 E Court St #444, Seguin, TX 78155

Website: www.workforcesolutionsalamo.org

The WIOA Youth Program is for youth age 16-24. They assist youth who have different barriers that have kept them from finishing school and entering the workforce. The barriers they serve are homeless, pregnant/parenting, foster, living with a disability, criminal background, low income.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Tutoring in core subjects of English/Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, and Science
• Tutoring for youth trying to obtain their GED

NEW BRAUNFELS CHRISTIAN MINISTRY

Email: dillon.villegas@nbcm.org
Phone: 830-626-7762
Address: 169 S Hickory Ave., New Braunfels, TX 78130
Website: https://nbcm.org/

New Braunfels Christian Ministries works together with families, volunteers and community partners to affirm God-given value and multiply possibilities in our community. Whether it’s walking alongside the next generation and their families at Kids Club or working together with adults at Volunteers in Medicine as they take charge of their health – NBCM is all about showing God’s love. Together we are greater than disease, diagnosis, and circumstance.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Academic tutoring and homework help for 1 hour per week (M/W or T/Th from 3:30-4:30 p.m.)
• Reading or Math support for 1 hour per week (M/W or T/Th from 3:30-4:30 p.m.)
• Food delivery for 1-2 days per week on weekday afternoons

SEGUIN MAIN STREET PROGRAM

Email: kkramm@seguintexas.gov

Phone: 830-401-5000

Address: 211 N. River St., Seguin, Texas 78155

Website: www.seguintexas.gov/departments/main_street/about_main_street.php

The Seguin Main Street program is devoted to the revitalization and preservation of the downtown Seguin historic district.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Help with special community events throughout the year
• Internships are also available to students

TEATRO DE ARTES DE JUAN SEGUIN

Email: teatrodeartes@yahoo.com
Phone: 830-401-0232

Address: 921 W New Braunfels St., Seguin, TX 78155

Website: www.teatrodeartes.org

Teatro de Artes de Juan Seguin is a nonprofit Mexican American Cultural Arts Center in Seguin, TX that offers Mariachi and Ballet Folklorico classes to youth. They also host a summer arts and agroecology camp, lectures, and holiday events throughout the year. They strive to promote a better understanding of the Mexican American culture by the teaching, study, practice, and performance of the arts.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Assistance with execution of programs and event preparation
• Serve as camp counselors during the summer arts and agro-ecology camp

EVERYTHING JESUS RANCH

Email: gina@ejranch.com (Gina Tillman-Young)
Phone: 830-491-8557 x.1024
Address: 12061 FM 466 Seguin, TX 78155

Website: www.moojesus.com

Everything Jesus Ranch is a Christian community, school, and farm/dairy ranch focused on holistic well-being.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Milking cows in the morning.
• Restaurant help on weekends.
• Farming help (planting, etc).
• Assisting with the school.

GED/ESL ADULT EDUCATION

Email: mnitu@seguin.k12.tx.us (Melissa Nitu)
Phone: 830-379-1220
Address: Seguin ISD Central Office, 1221 E. Kingsbury St., Seguin, TX 78155

Website: www.seguin.k12.tx.us/page/adulted.home

The Education Service Center, Region 20’s Adult Education & Literacy Program helps adult learners build a strong foundation of academic skills so that they may fulfill their role as a worker, parent and citizen/community member. Our instructors, instructional aides and supervisors have made a commitment to provide adult learners with the tools to achieve their goals and open a world of opportunities for success in their life.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Assist students during class times (GED M-TH 9 a.m.-12 p.m., M & W 6-9 p.m. and ESL M-TH 9 a.m.-12 p.m. & 6-9 p.m.)

GUADALUPE COUNTY ELECTIONS OFFICE

Email: lisa.hayes@co.guadalupe.tx.us (Lisa Hayes, Elections Administrator)
Phone: 830-303-6363

Address: 215 S Milam, Seguin, Texas 78155

Website: www.co.guadalupe.tx.us/elections

The Elections Administration Office provides voter registration and conducts elections for federal, state, county and contracted political entities.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Become a Voter Deputy Registrar (trainings on 2^nd Wednesday of each month at 3:00pm; call to register)
• Assist with preparation and execution of elections
• Serve as a poll worker

GARDEN OF EATIN’

Email: w.stal104@gmail.com (Wayne Stalsworth)

Phone: 830-379-5046

Address: Corner of Mountain and Travis Streets, Seguin, TX

Website: www.facebook.com/Garden-of-Eatin-Seguin-1448823655423515

Garden of Eatin’ is a Community Garden sponsored by Emanuel's Lutheran Church in Seguin, Texas, at Bowie and Mountain Streets. The Garden is maintained by volunteers from Emanuel's and the community.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• garden maintenance and support, such as planting, watering, harvesting, weeding, etc.

LULAC COMMUNITY GARDEN

Email: ricardo.guerra1950@gmail.com (Ricardo Guerra)

Phone: 830-379-9219

Address: 1502 Eighth St., Seguin, TX 78155

Website: www.facebook.com/Seguin-LULAC-Community-Garden-295245400568121

LULAC Community Garden is a community garden in Seguin, Texas that promotes community involvement and resource conservation, and that provides nutritious food. The Seguin LULAC Foundation community garden is located in central Seguin, Texas and was created to promote resource conservation and sustainability. The garden also demonstrates the farm-to-table concept by making fresh and locally grown fruits and vegetables available to the local neighborhood and community.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• help with gardening-related tasks
• assist with planting, maintenance, watering, harvesting, etc.

MY FATHER'S FARM

Email: myfathersfarm@gmail.com (Pedro Schambon)

Phone: 830-822-0200

Address: 1722 Steffens Rd., Seguin, TX 78155

Website: N/A

My Father’s Farm is a 100% organic farm a few miles from TLU. The farm is located on 52 acres in Seguin, TX. The proceeds support an orphanage in rural Columbia. The farm’s unofficial slogan is “Our veggies don’t do drugs.” MFF currently produces vegetables and herbs for Urban Acres, Greenling, and Wheatsville Co-op, as well as many local restaurants in San Antonio, Houston, and Austin.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Building and upkeep.
• Farming/gardening tasks (planting, harvesting, etc).
• Help with ongoing projects.

GUADALUPE VALLEY FAMILY VIOLENCE SHELTER, INC.

Email: volunteercoord@safeseguin.org

Phone: 830-372-2780

Address: Will be given if needed after volunteer screening

Website: www.safeseguin.org

Guadalupe Valley Family Violence Shelter has served survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault for thirty-five years, between Guadalupe, Gonzalez, Karnes and Wilson counties. Offering both residential and non-residential services, GVFVS provides emergency shelter, personalized safety planning, crisis intervention, peer counseling, legal advocacy, housing and employment resources, and much more. GVFVS continues to cultivate trusted advocacy and support for survivors on varying walks of life.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Direct client services- hotline answering, special events and childcare.
• Indirect client services- decorating, activity planning, shelter maintenance, and administrative/organizational support.
• Community Outreach- Event tabling, fundraising, resource and event outreach, and networking.

RURAL AREA PARENTING PROGRAM SERVICES (RAPPS)

Email: seguinrapps@gmail.com

Phone: 830-303-9225

Address: S. Austin St. Seguin, TX

Website: N/A

RAPPS offers classes on parent education (building family togetherness, stress-free parenting, communicating with children, etc.), anger management, alcohol & tobacco awareness, and co-parenting.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• assist with clerical duties, fundraising, and grant writing.

SOUTH TEXAS PREGNANCY CARE CENTER

Email: janice.stpcc@gmail.com

Phone: 830-303-2151

Address: 975 W Court St. Seguin, TX

Website: www.southtexaspregnancycarecenter.com

The South Texas Pregnancy Care Center (STPCC) has been serving the community of Seguin and surrounding counties since 2001. Their mission is to save babies and restore families through prevention, intervention, and restoration.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Peer life counseling.
• Sorting donations.
• Advocating and coaching.
• Baby Boutique attendants, helpers.
• Clerical help with promotional materials.

ALAMO LONG-TERM CARE OMBUDSMAN PROGRAM

Email: egillen@aacog.com (Emily Gillen, Alamo Staff

Ombudsman/Area Agency on Aging)

Phone: 210-918-1307

Address: 2700 NE Loop 410, Suite 101, San Antonio, TX 78217

Website: www.aacog.com/86/Long-Term-Care-Ombudsman

A long-term care (LTC) ombudsman listens to and addresses the concerns of nursing home and assisted living facility residents. Issues can range from the food service to problems with therapy. At all times, residents decide on the ombudsman's level of involvement. They can be counted on to respect residents' privacy and confidentiality. All volunteers are required to undergo an approximately 8-week certification training process and a background check. Volunteers should plan to commit to a 1-year term of service, visiting their Seguin/Alamo area residential facility about 2 times monthly.

Volunteer Opportunities include:

• telling residents about their rights.
• empowering and supporting residents and their families to discuss concerns with facility staff.
• identifying gaps in facility, government, or community services and trying to help fix those gaps.

ALTUS HOSPICE

Email: kalopez@altushospicecare.com (Katherine Lopez)
Phone: 210-920-2620

Address: 40 NE Loop 410, Suite 343, San Antonio, TX 78216

Website: www.altushospice.com

Altus Hospice is specialized care for those reaching the end of life. It is designed to provide support and comfort for the patient as well as the patient’s loved ones through a variety of services.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Direct patient care and indirect patient care
• companionship support, caregiver relief, household helper, and bereavement support
• administrative support, speaker bureau, special events, and being a part of the correspondence tea.

COMMUNITY COUNCIL OF SOUTH CENTRAL TEXAS

Email: cdelgado@ccsct.org

Phone: 830-767-2019

Address: 801 N State Hwy 123 Bypass, Seguin, TX 78155

Website: www.ccsct.org

Community Action Agencies are private non-profit or public organizations that were created by the federal government in 1964, as part of the Economic Opportunity Act, to prevent and reduce poverty by affording everyone the opportunity for education, training, and the chance to work and live in decency and dignity. CCSCT empowers vulnerable families and individuals in greater South Central Texas to achieve self-sufficiency by eliminating barriers through innovative programs and strong community partnerships.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Utility and rental assistance/case management.
• Answering the phone, filing paperwork, assisting with client intake and scheduling client appointments.

DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS (DAV)

Email: DAVCH61CDR@gmail.com

Phone: 830-379-3299
Address: 425 N Vaughan Ave., Seguin, TX 78155

Website: www.texvet.org/resources/disabled-american-veterans-dav-chapter-61

The Disabled American Veterans, Chapter 61, helps veterans get the health care and governmental benefits that they are entitled to. They strive to give our best in service, quality, integrity, and leadership in representation and advocacy support today and in the future. They hold fundraisers, dances, picnics, and other events throughout the year.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Several tasks (paint, clean, etc).
• Gardening.
• Help with annual fundraiser.

EDEN CROSS & EDEN PLACE

Email: 0639SC@nationalchurchresidences.org (Ray Stahl)
Phone: 830-372-3870
Address: 1240 Jefferson Ave., Seguin, TX 78155

Website: N/A

Eden Cross Apartments is an affordable rental housing community for seniors age 62 and older. There are meal programs, training programs, events, and there is a community garden program.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Assisting with on-going activities, community garden and flowerbeds work, and recycling

GIFTED HEARTS HOSPICE

Email: brittanyo.giftedheartshospice@gmail.com (Brittany Ortiz)

Phone: 830-715-9299
Address: 1418 N Austin St., Suite 12, Seguin, Texas 78155

Website: www.giftedheartshospice.com

Gifted Hearts Hospice is a formidable team dedicated to providing heartfelt and spiritual care. Their approach as a service that seeks to: increase quality-of-life, maintain dignity, and provide home for symptom control.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• provide companionship and emotional support
• provide caregiver respite
• experience and familiarity with medical/healthcare facilities is preferred

HEART TO HEART HOSPICE

Email: ariojas@htohh.com (Amy Rojas)
Phone: (512) 667-6816
Address: 1340 Wonder World Dr., Suite 4202, San Marcos, TX 78666

Website: hearttohearthospice.com

Heart to Heart Hospice is seeking volunteers to visit patients at their residence in the fast-growing Seguin and surrounding areas. Their mission is to make a difference by providing compassionate care from our heart to enhance the quality of life for those with life-limiting illnesses and their loved ones.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Provide companionship and emotional support.
• Read aloud, play music, play games, or simply sit and listen as they share their life stories.
• Provide caregiver respite.

KINDRED HOSPICE

Email: angela.crotts@kindredhospicecare.com (Angela Crotts, Manager of Volunteer Services)

Phone: 512-392-9138
Address: 1911 Corporate Dr., Suite 104, San Marcos, TX 78666

Website: www.curohealthservices.com/locations

Kindred Hospice is a medical specialty dedicated to the support and care of persons with limited life expectancies, so that they may live as fully and comfortably as possible. The hospice philosophy focuses on maintaining the quality of life for each patient. Hospice volunteers are there to hold a hand and listen, read or write a letter, run errands or help out in the office.

Volunteer opportunities include:

Provide bedside companionship for patients

Run errands

Assist with administrative duties

Create gifts for patients and families

Discover your best fit to serve, based on your gifts and talents

NESBIT LIVING AND RECOVERY CENTER

Email: info@nesbitlrc.com

Phone: 830-379-1606

Address: 1215 Ashby St., Seguin, TX 78155

Website: www.facebook.com/nesbitlrc

Nesbit Living and Recovery Center is a privately owned and operated facility that provides nursing care, recovery resources, and rehab services. They offer a living alternative for those unable to care for themselves, and an array of nursing and rehabilitation services for short- and long-term stays.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Play games with residents.
• Companionship for residents.
• Ongoing special events.

REMARKABLE HEALTHCARE

Email: jmarmolejo@remarkablehealthcare.net (Julia Marmolejo)
Phone: 830-379-3900
Address: 1339 Eastwood Dr., Seguin, TX 78155

Website: www.remarkablehealthcare.net/index.html

Remarkable Healthcare is focused on the individual who needs healthcare services after his/her hospital stay. They offer services to help individuals return home to the community as well as long term services for those who may require our care for an extended time. Their programs are designed to help neighbors recover quickly from surgery, injury, or serious illness and speed up the recovery process.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Being an activity assistant with group activities such as arts, crafts, and games.
• Support is also needed for in-room visitation, Bible study, and musician performances.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS

Contact: Noah Willoughby
(737) 781-9417

Website: https://givepul.se/rvd079

The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.

The Center for Servant Leadership (CSL) recognizes TLU students for their commitment to campus and the University. Service learning is a core mission we want to publicly recognize and thank those who embrace it. The kelly green honor cord is primarily given to students who have shown exemplary skill in community service.

Students must meet the following eligibility requirements to receive a service learning cord:

• Undergraduate students must have participated in at least 200 hours of service while at TLU.
• Transfer, Graduate, and Doctoral students must have participated in at least 100 hours of service while at TLU
• Students keep track of their volunteer services on their own through Connect and Community Partner verification. Important things to keep track of include: volunteer organizations/groups you volunteered for, location of organizations, amount of hours served.
• Examples of volunteer services that will count towards receiving a cord include: service on campus, service in the community,
• Activities or connected to a service learning class. Service must be direct, indirect, research or advocacy. Examples of service through the CSL (H.O.T. Dog Day, Day of Service, collected/donated food to a local food pantry, Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, Cesar Chavez Day of Action, etc.) Internships/practicum experiences, participation in philanthropic events (raised money for a charity,) do not count.
• More information will be sent to graduates prior to graduation ceremony with instructions on how to apply
• For questions, please contact volunteer@tlu.edu

Each year, TLU honors individuals, organizations, courses, and groups who exemplify service. Returning in 2024 is a new awards ceremony with honors in the following categories: Outstanding Community Partner; Outstanding Community Employer; Outstanding Service Learning Course; Outstanding Student Servant Leader; Outstanding Staff Servant Leader; Outstanding Student Organization Service