“These folks are the most generous, kind, thoughtful people I’ve ever met in my life,” said Karen P. about the Compassionate Diaspora volunteer group. We are so grateful to this wonderful volunteer group for serving a Christmas Meal at the Albuquerque Opportunity Center for a 12th year in a row!

It all started with Karen’s husband Tad, he began volunteering at the Albuquerque Opportunity Center back in 2007. Tad and Karen asked themselves, “Wouldn’t it be nice if we could take the guests something to eat?” That first year, four people showed up on Christmas with a pot of pesole and other fixings, and there was enough to go around. Since the early days, Compassionate Diaspora has grown to over 30 members! They never fail to provide everything we need and more to feed all of the guests who are staying at the AOC on Christmas. This year, there was enough food to keep our residents full for a few more days!

In addition to serving a meal, the Compassionate Diaspora sticks around to enjoy food and community and talk with our guests. We deeply appreciate your dedication to Heading Home. Thank you for making Christmas so special and memorable for our guests year after year!