“I have to say this year’s La Puente mission trip had an extra special effect,” reflects Jon Dreux, facilities director for Central Presbyterian Church and a volunteer on the mission team. “The fellas from Heartbeat Denver: Bernard, Kailin, Keith, Jordan, Richard and Duane did some really great work, while setting an example to La Puente that giving back from people in need is a very powerful connection to doing God’s work!”
The 2025 mid-June trip was facilitated by La Puente’s Volunteer Coordination Director, David Schneider: La Puente has operated in Colorado’s San Luis Valley since 1978 to provide a safety net of services where individuals and families can find stability, heal, and ultimately thrive.
Jon continues, “Bernard, Kailin, Jordan, and Duane all worked to build a porch with a ramp for a wheelchair, desperately needed.”
“Keith and Richard worked with the other groups (all-ages crews from Central Presbyterian and Alamosa Presbyterian) in the huge Vegi Garden, and assembled commodities sustenance boxes for monthly food distribution to 250 families in need. Plus, cleaning and organizing at Alamosa Presbyterian (which provided housing and victuals for the mission team), and helping to plant 5 nice trees for a multi-year, ambitious landscape project in front of the church.”
“A lot of eyes were opened as to the abilities and caring from the HBD fellas.”
“And after serving a Sunday BBQ lunch to La Puente shelter folks, we quickly demolished an old wooden shed and cleaned and removed the demo – and fenced in open spots with pockets!” In closing, Jon says: “I am only speaking to the work the HBD fellas did, and there was more help from young to old from Central folks – who also got to work with some of the fellas, and were very heartfelt.”
Heartbeat Denver welcomed a new team member in early August — Eric Haley (NCRC I & II) was tapped as new Program Director, succeeding Georgie Villareal who worked wholeheartedly to help establish the Working Men’s Program, 2023-25.
Eric is known for his over-the-top relentless energy, drive, and optimistic outlook on life. With years of lived experience he challenges the clients daily to set goals and rise above all the obstacles the world throws at them.
Eric says, “I am honored to be chosen for the role of Program Director and look forward to working hand in hand with the men here at Heartbeat Denver to soar to new heights in their lives.” Contact Eric: Eric@hbdenver.org or 303-832-0443.
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