As we begin this new year, many of us think of changing habits, routines and discarding outdated items. Like the saying goes, “Out with the old and in with the new.” As I do my “reset” for this new year, I think of the things that are of priceless value to me. My faith, family and treasured friends.
As we attend Nocturnal Adoration, Father talked about the importance of prayer and examination of conscience. He mentioned how when we someone takes a vow to pray the Liturgy of the Hours. He said morning prayers are said in the morning and night prayers are done in the evening. I was like God was speaking directly to me. So many times, as I look around the day, I find myself reading all of the prayers that evening for sometimes even the next morning to catch up. This year, my goal is to keep up with my morning and evening meditations.
When it comes to family and friends, my goal is to reconnect in every Christmas message I sent out holding season I wrote, “I love you.” I don’t want there to be any doubt the day I am gone from this earth that I told someone I love them.
Life is so short to spend it angry or upset.
The final “frontier” is the “(LOL)” you never realize how much stuff you have until you try to find something. I told my husband, “it’s time to un-clutter.” We have a room the house that was full of “stuff” we use seasonally or when needed. I found two roasters, a coffee dispenser, rosary beads, nativity sets, retreat items and much more.
Once you decide what you can part with, there are few charities that can benefit from your gently used items. You might even have someone know one that you would like to donate as well. Let’s start with shelves that can use items for youth: Sacred Heart Children’s Home and Casa care a couple times of the year for these shelters can vary. A couple of shelters for families include Bethany House and Casa de Misericordia. These two local shelters take adult items. Shelters are always in need of basic necessities such as socks, shoes, under garments, personal hygiene items (toothbrush, shampoo, soap, deodorant, cream, etc.), cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, hand soap, dishwashing soap, paper products, etc.
There are also a few agencies that have items to store where people can go to purchase items. Salvage Army, Jesus House, Goodwill and Habitat for Humanity are a few places that come to mind. A few of these places can even pick up your items if you make the proper arrangements. Remember, if you can deliver it yourself, that helps keep the charity’s costs down.
If you are looking to help seniors, Catholic Charities has senior programs. They provide basic essentials and have a simple food pantry for clients. Several of the senior nursing homes will also take donated items for their clients.
Last year, my youth group collected socks and personal hygiene items for seniors. The students generously served our community service hours, blankets, socks and toiletries to brighten their day. Be prepared. The nursing home only asked to be able to take a photo to share its appreciation.
By Peggy Duncan
Dear Friends,
We were all saddened to receive the news that Carolyn Schmies had passed on Dec. 23. It came as a shock to everyone who knew her. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends and loved ones.
On Monday, Carolyn called while on her way to San Antonio to discuss the topic for this week’s Cuidando Lo Nuestro column. Since she was traveling, there was a lot of static on the line, making it difficult to hear everything she said. We agreed that this week’s column would focus on the importance of volunteer commitment. Today’s column is dedicated to Carolyn M. Schmies, knowing that she is the perfect example of a committed and dynamic volunteer leader.
Volunteers are the secret to the success of any organization. They are vital to all nonprofit agencies. Volunteers help staff community events, facilitate access to services, and reduce the cost of providing programs for those in need. This holiday season, you may have seen volunteers serving meals at Bethany House on Thanksgiving or ringing bells for the Salvation Army during the Christmas season.
Volunteers are essential. They give their personal time, provide leadership, and share their experiences or knowledge for the betterment of the community. Most volunteers are driven by a cause or inspired by something that has touched their lives. It is that motivation that keeps them moving forward despite the challenges that may arise.
As president of United Way, Carolyn shared that her family was helped by a United Way agency when she lived in Indiana. Her daughter, Cesha Monique Brown, had cerebral palsy, and it was a United Way agency that helped them deal with many of the challenges of her illness. That assistance began Carolyn’s lifelong support of the network.
Volunteers Serving the Need (VSTN) is another charitable organization you might choose to help. Mrs. Gigi Ramos is the founder and CEO. VSTN opens a thrift store in January 2020. At the time, there were over 8,000 military veterans in Webb County. They started off by helping 27 veterans. By August 2021, the number of veterans assisted increased to approximately 500 a month. They help with food and toiletries, but additionally to the needs, they now help with food stamps applications, overcoming debt and finding clothing suitable for job interviews.
Their website shares that originally, the Veterans Project was created to help veterans and to bring the common misconception that “The U.S. government provides all military veterans with any type of assistance that they may need.” In reality, veterans receive support only for military service related to injuries and illnesses.
Once home, veterans are just like any other group of individuals, and sometimes they have a hard time making ends meet. As Ms. Ramos states, “It’s so sad to see that some of these veterans are going through some very tough times.”
Oh, and one more note for the problem solvers: Don’t forget the toys.
For more information on volunteers serving the need, visit their website at www.vstn.org. You can also call them at 956-729-2600.
Visit the AHFC office in Laredo for information on any of the other charities listed in this article.
You can also dial 2-1-1. Choose the option for local community resources. Simply ask for the phone number for the charitable organization.
In Laredo, Carolyn led United Way campaigns while employed at General Motors, Packard Electric, Delphi, and later at Laredo College. She organized committees and inspired faculty, staff, and students to get involved and make a difference.
David Ovalle, owner of Livi’s Mexique Restaurant and a former student of Carolyn’s, joined the United Way Board of Directors this year. He launched the “First Friday” campaign at his restaurant, partnering with Ruiz Meat Market to sell barbecue chicken plates on the first Friday of every month to benefit the 20 organizations supported by United Way. David said, “Ms. Schmies encouraged us to be innovative and motivated us by the example of her dynamic leadership.”
Carolyn volunteered and held leadership roles with several community organizations, including Literacy Volunteers of Laredo, Women’s City Club, Leadership Texas, and the United Methodist Church. She was a woman of faith who truly believed in helping others —
whether through donations, board service, event coordination, or quietly offering prayers for those in need. She was a true example of a dedicated volunteer and often told me, “Peggy, I’m praying for United Way.”
Since taking office in January 2025, Carolyn called me daily to check in. She offered to help United Way by writing the Cuidando Lo Nuestro column. With her background in communications, it was a perfect fit. Our Monday phone calls focused on selecting weekly topics and identifying expert sources. She loved sharing her life experiences and motivating others into action. She prepared thoroughly for every presentation and took her responsibilities seriously, always wanting to be inclusive and thoughtful. She responded to every phone call, email, message, or text and thanked everyone individually for their time, leadership, and support.
As Executive Director of United Way, I can honestly say Carolyn was the board member we all dream of having. She was always ready to help — making calls, attending events, selling tickets, or donating door prizes. She responded promptly and consistently expressed gratitude, often replying with “THANK YOU” and “YOU ARE WELCOME.” In fact, on Monday, she responded to our special events group chat with, “See you at the meeting on Friday.”
Carolyn strongly believed that volunteering meant following through — not just having your name on a roster, but actively helping others and sharing God’s love and blessings. She was a beautiful soul who touched so many lives.
GIRL SCOUTS OF GREATER SOUTH TEXAS – GIRL SCOUT COOKIE TIME!
Girl Scouts is excited to announce that the 2026 Girl Scout Cookie Program officially kicked off Jan. 4. Girl Scouts should already have cookies on hand. Keep an eye out for friendly faces wearing their green vests. You can also buy their cookies online at www.girlscouts.org/cookies.html. The 2026 Cookie Program will conclude March 1.
R.B. COWL REHABILITATION CENTER – CHILDREN’S ORTHOPEDIC CENTER
Ruth B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center will be hosting the monthly Children’s Orthopedic Clinic on Tuesday, Jan. 28. Advance treatment is offered for a range of conditions, from simple fractures to total joint replacements. Sports injuries and some segment of musculoskeletal disease. Registration is required. There is a $5 processing fee. No referral or insurance required. To schedule an appointment, call 956-723-2434.
AREA HEALTH EDUCATION CENTER (AHEC) – CERVICAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH PREVENTION & EARLY DETECTION
AHEC will be having cervical cancer training for Community Health Workers on Jan. 29 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Benavides Forum, N. 112. The guest speaker, if you would like to register or need additional information, contact the AHEC office at 956-727-0037.
The next Farmer’s Market will be happening on Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. at The Outlet Shops at Laredo. Each month features a unique theme, seasonal activities and exciting workshops. Every visit is a new and memorable experience. Whether you’re shopping for fresh ingredients, supporting local artisans or enjoying live entertainment, the Farmer’s Market is the place to be. For more information, email farmersmarket@outletshopsatLaredo.com.
STATE EMPLOYEE CHARITABLE CAMPAIGN – LOCAL CAMPAIGN MANAGER
The SECC Laredo Area is accepting 2026 applications from charitable organizations interested in managing the day-to-day operations of the SECC Campaign. Applications are due Jan. 25 by midnight. Email secc_laredo@gmail.com for an application or more information.
LAREDO CRIME STOPPERS – 30TH ANNUAL MENUDO BOWL XXX
Saturday, Jan. 25. For more information on how to get involved, sponsor, purchase or volunteer, reach out by calling 956-724-8766 or sending an email to info@laredocrimestoppers.org.
BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF LAREDO – 28TH ANNUAL C.E. BENAVIDES III WINE TASTING GALA
Join the WLA Celebrating on Jan. 18 at the historic Benavides Building. This is a Night at Studio 54. It is a black-tie event scheduled for Jan. 18 from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. at the Laredo Country Club. For more information, email bgclaredo.com or call 956-724-9564.
AL CAMBIADOR DEL ALCALDE EMPLOYEE DONATION DRIVE
In a friendly internal team competition, the Office of Personnel Management has extended the CFC campaign deadline to Jan. 31. All federal employees can go to the CFC website to make their payroll deduction donations to charities. Visit www.cfc.gov.
WASHINGTON’S BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION – 28TH ASSOCIATION FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA
Everyone is invited to join the fun on Feb. 14 at the Webb County 1848 Event Center located off U.S. 59. Tailgate at Live Music from 3 p.m. with Fireworks at Drone Show at 8 p.m. Admission is free for everyone!
UNITED WAY OF LAREDO – LOVES IN THE AIR VALENTINE’S DAY DANCE SPONSORED BY FALCON BANK
United Way of Laredo will be having a Valentine’s Day Dinner & Dance Celebration. The event is sponsored by Falcon Bank and will be held at the Falcon Bank Event Center on Feb. 6 from 7 p.m. Music will be provided by Evolution De Miguel Pastrana. Come enjoy the fun! For ticket information or table reservations, contact United Way at 956-723-9153 or email uwlaredo@uwlaredo.org.
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