Iglesia Christiana Roca de Refugio (Rock of Refuge Christian Church) is a Mennonite church dedicated to assisting newcomers in settling into the community. The church offers long-term shelter and facilitates integration through a network of knowledge and support. Volunteer options include:
Direct support for immigrant families
Volunteers are urgently needed to work directly with immigrant families by aiding with transportation, helping navigate local resources, and fostering personal connections. Volunteers should have passable Spanish language skills and a valid driver’s license.
Church maintenance and operations
- Building and grounds maintenance such as general repairs and upkeep of the church property.
- Food pantry assistance – help manage and distribute food supplies.
- Donation closet management – sorting and cleaning donated items. Note that the donation closet is on the second floor without elevator access.
- Clerical and administrative roles – grant writing, organizing financial records, and documenting stories of congregational families. Spanish language skills are not required for these roles.
Accommodations
While Roca de Refugio cannot provide housing directly, there are nearby Airbnb options. Additionally, individuals with trailers can potentially park at the church, provided they have electric and water access with prior individual arrangements. Each request for parking must be submitted with specific dates and is subject to approval due to the church not owning the site.
Commitment and climate considerations
- A minimum commitment of two weeks is recommended to fully engage and benefit from the volunteer experience.
- Volunteers can serve year-round but should note that San Antonio experiences warm to hot weather for seven to eight months starting in April.
For those interested in volunteering, especially with a trailer, ensure to submit your request well in advance for accommodation arrangements. This proactive approach helps manage the logistical aspects of hosting volunteers at the site.
Roca de Refugio values the contributions of its volunteers and looks forward to building a supportive community for immigrants in San Antonio.