Remembering Carolyn Schmies
Leadership by example: remebering carolynm schmies Cuidando lo Nuestro | Laredo Morning Times. 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. 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. 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. 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. Facebook Instagram In Laredo, Carolyn led United Way campaigns while employed
At Thanksgiving, We’re Counting Our Blessings
At Thanksgiving, we’re counting our blessings Cuidando lo Nuestro | Laredo Morning Times. As November comes to an end, we find ourselves reminiscing on the year that was. The sun now sets before 6 p.m., nights are colder, and holiday decorations begin to glow in neighborhoods. With Thanksgiving leftovers still in the fridge, we are given a chance to pause and sink into the warmth of being around friends, family and home, remembering the love we’ve shared, the laughter we’ve shared, the good we carry in all our traditions. We are filled, we are thankful for another year of joy — even through difficult or hardship, we grow, pushed, pulled, and reshaped by life. I, myself, am so grateful for my daughter, my family and friends. With every new season in life, she continues to give me strength and purpose. My friends remain at my side and help me grow as a mother, and introduced me to love life in ways I never thought I could. Finally, my coworkers continue to shape me and build me up — through sessions with classmates I’ve now grown so close to, and new friendships with coworkers who now feel like family. Gratitude is a feeling we all share; we all carry it in different ways. We asked our community to share what they are thankful for in this year. Edgar Martinez, programs director of the Catholic Diocese of Laredo, shares, “I am deeply grateful for my wife, my family, and our moon drops, who all keep me smiling. Most of all, I’m thankful for the opportunity to serve my community in need of nourishment, sharing hope, kindness, and love.” At our community centers, we spoke to Ali Manrique from South Texas Council. Says, “I am thankful for the leaders and volunteers who help the teens to believe in themselves and help them want to get where they want to go. As November comes to an end, we find ourselves reminiscing on the year that was. The sun now sets before 6 p.m., nights are colder, and holiday decorations begin to glow in neighborhoods. With Thanksgiving leftovers still in the fridge, we are given a chance to pause and sink into the warmth of being around friends, family and home, remembering the love we’ve shared, the laughter we’ve shared, the good we carry in all our traditions. We are filled, we are thankful for another year of joy — even through difficult or hardship, we grow, pushed, pulled, and reshaped by life. Facebook Instagram My friends remain at my side and help me grow as a mother, and introduced me to love life in ways I never thought I could. Finally, my coworkers continue to shape me and build me up — through sessions with classmates I’ve now grown so close to, and new friendships with coworkers who now feel like family. Gratitude is a feeling we all share; we all carry it in different ways. We asked our community to share what they are thankful for in this year. Edgar Martinez, programs director of the Catholic Diocese of Laredo, shares, “I am deeply grateful for my wife, my family, and our moon drops, who all keep me smiling. Most of all, I’m thankful for the opportunity to serve my community in need of nourishment, sharing hope, kindness, and love.” At our community centers, we spoke to Ali Manrique from South Texas Council. Says, “I am thankful for the leaders and volunteers who help the teens to believe in themselves and help them want to get where they want to go. I am also thankful to have been able to serve our communities through all our Scouting programs.” For many, this year has been one filled with love for family, health, laughter, and happiness. For others, it has been one filled with difficult lessons, heartache, trials, but always with hope and strength. Another community member Reyna Sampson said, “I am always thankful for God for many blessings for my family. I am also thankful that my family and the UPLAT web team of the Laredo Area United Way family.” Gratitude extends out into our community director and general manager of South Texas Food Bank, “I am thankful for the support, love from the communities, and the great leadership from our board and beyond. The collective support and commitment we see every year reminds us that I am part of something greater, and together, we can achieve more than we can alone.” Doctor Jude Franco says, “I am thankful for God and the life he has given me. For my family blessings for this new year and purpose. With him, I have it all.” Carolyn Semites, the president for United Way of Laredo, shared, “Thank you Heavenly Father for the dedicated staff of the United Way of Laredo — Sergio Duran, Nereida Luna Lozano and Elizabeth Zuniga. Their work is amazing and I appreciate the many things Alfredo Duran does. They guide me through my duties.” I am also thankful to have been able to serve our communities through all our Scouting programs.” For many, this year has been one filled with love for family, health, laughter, and happiness. For others, it has been one filled with difficult lessons, heartache, trials, but always with hope and strength. Another community member Reyna Sampson said, “I am always thankful for God for many blessings for my family. I am also thankful that my family and the UPLAT web team of the Laredo Area United Way family.” Gratitude extends out into our community director and general manager of South Texas Food Bank, “I am thankful for the support, love from the communities, and the great leadership from our board and beyond. The collective support and commitment we see every year reminds us that I am part of something greater, and together, we can achieve more than we can alone.” Doctor Jude Franco says, “I am thankful for God and the life he has given me. For my
South Texas Girl Scouts
Empowering the future Cuidando lo Nuestro | Laredo Morning Times. The Greater South Texas Girl Scouts continue to weave a tapestry of leadership, empowerment, and community spirit. From fostering confidence in young minds to helping girls make a difference in their neighborhoods, these scouts are shaping the future one adventure at a time. This week, we spotlight two remarkable local Girl Scout troops — Troop 9009 and Troop 7008 — who recently completed their Bronze Award projects, the highest honor in Girl Scouts for grades 4–5. Eight dedicated Juniors earned this award by completing over twenty hours of community service. They chose projects tied to health and wellness: designing and assembling First Aid bags for the homeless and gathering hygiene supplies and snacks for those in need. Now and in the future, these scouts continue to show what leadership looks like. At the Vietnam Plaza next to the Gene–Glazar Public Library, the scouts planted a tree as a symbol of growth, service, and purpose. Their message is simple: Everyone can give back and make a difference. The Bronze Award encourages Girl Scouts to identify a community need, create a plan, and carry it out. Juniors can earn this award if they: Are in 4th or 5th grade and registered as a Girl Scout Junior Complete the Junior Leadership Journey Work with their troop on a sustainable, service-based project Those interested in the Bronze Award can reach out to their local Girl Scout Council to begin their journey. Scouts learn to explore ideas, build a team, and see a project through from start to finish — skills that stay with them for life. The Greater South Texas Girl Scouts continue to weave a tapestry of leadership, empowerment, and community spirit. From fostering confidence in young minds to helping girls make a difference in their neighborhoods, these scouts are shaping the future one adventure at a time. This week, we spotlight two remarkable local Girl Scout troops — Troop 9009 and Troop 7008 — who recently completed their Bronze Award projects, the highest honor in Girl Scouts for grades 4–5. Eight dedicated Juniors earned this award by completing over twenty hours of community service. They chose projects tied to health and wellness: designing and assembling First Aid bags for the homeless and gathering hygiene supplies and snacks for those in need. Now and in the future, these scouts continue to show what leadership looks like. At the Vietnam Plaza next to the Gene–Glazar Public Library, the scouts planted a tree as a symbol of growth, service, and purpose. Their message is simple: Everyone can give back and make a difference. The Bronze Award encourages Girl Scouts to identify a community need, create a plan, and carry it out. Juniors can earn this award if they: Are in 4th or 5th grade and registered as a Girl Scout Junior Complete the Junior Leadership Journey Work with their troop on a sustainable, service-based project Those interested in the Bronze Award can reach out to their local Girl Scout Council to begin their journey. Scouts learn to explore ideas, build a team, and see a project through from start to finish — skills that stay with them for life. For anyone looking to become a Girl Scout, contact Victoria Rosas at:956-425-9288 ext. 544 or email vrosas@gsgst.org. You can also stop by the local Girl Scout House at 701 N. Stone (behind the skating rink) on Saturdays in March. Community Events Laredo Philharmonic: Sounds of the SeasonSunday, December 7 at 3 p.m.LISD Performing Arts Complex, 2409 San Bernardo Ave.Tickets: $20 adults / $5 students & seniorsVisit laredophilharmonic.org Children’s Advocacy Center – 28th Annual Christmas Toy Tea Monday, December 10 from 6–8 p.m.1602 MeSherperson Rd., Suite 7All proceeds support children in need. For more info: caclaredo.org Wreaths Across America – LaredoCeremony to honor veteransSaturday, December 14 at 11 a.m.Sponsor a wreath or learn more: wreathsacrossamerica.org or call 956-704-0341 United Way of Laredo – Pop-Up Christmas Fest Saturday, December 15 from 11 a.m.–4 p.m.The Outlet Shoppes at LaredoVendors, music, holiday cheer, and moreVendor info: unitedwaylaredo.org Laredo Crime Stoppers: 36th Annual Menudo Bowl Saturday, January 24, 2026To get involved or sponsor: 956-724-1876 Imaginarium of South Texas – Homework Assistance ProgramTuesdays & Wednesdays, 4:30–7:30 p.m.Limited spots availableMore info: imaginariumst.org Facebook Instagram Community Events Laredo Philharmonic: Sounds of the SeasonSunday, December 7 at 3 p.m.LISD Performing Arts Complex, 2409 San Bernardo Ave.Tickets: $20 adults / $5 students & seniorsVisit laredophilharmonic.org Children’s Advocacy Center – 28th Annual Christmas Toy Tea Monday, December 10 from 6–8 p.m.1602 MeSherperson Rd., Suite 7All proceeds support children in need. For more info: caclaredo.org Wreaths Across America – LaredoCeremony to honor veteransSaturday, December 14 at 11 a.m.Sponsor a wreath or learn more: wreathsacrossamerica.org or call 956-704-0341 United Way of Laredo – Pop-Up Christmas Fest Saturday, December 15 from 11 a.m.–4 p.m.The Outlet Shoppes at LaredoVendors, music, holiday cheer, and moreVendor info: unitedwaylaredo.org For anyone looking to become a Girl Scout, contact Victoria Rosas at 956-425-9288 ext. 544 or email vrosas@gsgst.org. You can also stop by the local Girl Scout House at 701 N. Stone (behind the skating rink) on Saturdays in March. VITA Volunteers Needed Catholic Charities & United Way of Laredo are recruiting Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) volunteers for the 2025 tax season. No experience required — training is provided. Contact: Edgar Martinez at 956-722-3902 Lorena Vite at 956-723-3733 Email: info@unitedwaylaredo.org — Carolyn M. Schmies, United Way of Laredo Read The NewsPaper Article by Clicking Here! Don’t stop here More to explore Our Pacesetters Be a Pacesetter: Lead with Innovation. Make an Impact. Join us in achieving our goals and creating positive change in our community. Help pave the way and set the pace for lasting impact. Fundraising Make a Difference: Support our fundraising efforts! Every contribution counts, big or small. Together, we can reach new heights and create positive change in our community. Join us by donating today and filling the meter with hope and compassion. Allocations Empowerment through Strategic Giving: Our Allocations Program ensures effective resource distribution, addressing community needs in education, healthcare, and more. Join us to build a stronger community with your support.
Ruthe B Cowl
A Journey of Healing and Hope: Empowering Individuals to Regain Mobility Jackie Rodriguez the Executive Director of Ruthe B Cowl Rehabilitation Center Nancy Guevara lost her ability to walk after a mysterious bite led her to be paralyzed in her lower body. In need of treatment, she sought out help from Ruthe B Cowl Rehabilitation Center, where they were able to provide her with the services at an affordable price to help her begin her healing journey. Ruthe B Cowl Rehabilitation Center gave her a second chance at life with the treatment and physical therapies she received that helped her achieve her goals and the capabilities to walk again.
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Ending poverty in Africa
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Shelter for homeless
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Charity is making big changes across the Africa
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Poverty level dropped by 3% around the Global
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