Browse archives: 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997 | 1996 | 1995

Published on 12/18/1995 All articles from this issue

Trio steers local Alpha Omega shelter to success

printer friendly version

By Ruth Polata

Special to the Town Crier

One reason that the Alpha Omega shelter program is successful is because of the hard-working people who have been part of its steering committee over the years. Three who represent different aspects of the group's work are Mary Burkhardt of Los Altos United Methodist Church, Jean Taylor of Foothills Congregational Church and Paul Weber of St. Nicholas Catholic Church.

Burkhardt was one of the program's founders. Her personal energy was a major factor in helping things get off to a flying start. At that time, she was a free-lance book illustrator, but now she is on the staff of Community Services Agency. That came about as a result of her close association with the agency in all aspects of the shelter's program. Her illustrations often complement articles in their newsletters.

Soon after the program began, Burkhardt had two dreams for the future. One was to have transitional housing for graduates of the program, another was to have volunteers who would stay in touch with them as they re-entered the mainstream of life. After several years, those dreams are being realized. A transitional house with six bedrooms has been opened in Mountain View. Also, a group of Alpha Omega alumni meets when they can - and when an organizer is available. They in turn are now giving back to the program, and three have become overnight supervisors.

Early on, Taylor saw to it that the guests had access to an answering service so that they could receive notice about job interviews and such. Through a fellow church member, she arranged for free cleaning of the many sleeping bags that are used. As a tireless member of the supplies committee, she also saw to it that "her boys" had some of their individual special needs met. For the shelter guests though, she is probably best loved for those fabulous pancakes she serves them at six in the morning.

Weber set out to organize outside groups to bring in dinner once a month. Through his patience and diligence, there are now 12 community groups and organizations who do just that. This is a great help to the host churches who serve dinner every night for a month, for up to 15 people, as well as providing breakfast and lunch fixings.

The Alpha Omega program is consistently praised by guests for the personal warmth and caring of its volunteers. The volunteers consistently talk of how being part of the program has made their lives richer. There is always room for one more on the steering committee; anyone interested may call Alice Larse at 948-5905.