Pia joined Open Door Ministries as a Shelter Manager and Program Specialist in early 2024. She works closely with guests of both the shelter and food programs and plays an integral role in facilitating volunteer activities.
Photo Featuring: (Left) Pia serving breakfast; (Right) Pia checking in with guest
“What I love about working with the guests at ODM is that most of them are very respectful and grateful. Open Door is a powerhouse for love - the type of love that encourages us to understand each other, the type of love that brings everyone together. Guests, volunteers, staff, etc... everyone can benefit from being a part of Open Door.”
Motivated by her own passion for helping children and young adults in need, Pia pours her heart into her work, bringing kindness to the people around her. A few years ago, Pia was in a loving relationship with her fiancé. However, tragedy struck, he passed away unexpectedly. Just as Pia was mourning her loss, her best friend also passed away not long after.
“My fiancé always had a passion for helping people, especially kids and teenagers who had nowhere to be, he always looked out for his neighbors. We did a lot of cookouts in the community to feed those who were hungry. When he passed, it took a huge toll on me. We talked before he went to bed, but he never woke up again,” Pia teared up as she shared this heartbreaking memory.
“He always said that I have the biggest smile. After he passed, I decided to carry on his legacy by helping as many people as I could and putting smiles on their faces. I laugh because our lives are already full of pain, let’s smile and live life to its fullest while we are still here. I love coming to work, being a part of the loving organization, working alongside genuine and kind souls like Ms. D, Ms. Stephanie, Andrew, and everyone else. It feels good to know that I am doing what I can to help people, if everyone can be motivated to share their kindness, there will be fewer people experiencing struggle and pain in our society. Even during unavoidable hardship, at least people would feel loved and supported in the battle. Sometimes, just a simple smile can light up somebody else’s day.”
During her difficult times, Pia sought help from Open Door’s soup kitchen. Now, as one of her ways of giving back, she is also highly involved with Father’s Table, ensuring that every meal she gives out is not only warm and delicious but also filled with encouragement and love.
“I want to encourage those who are experiencing hardship to keep moving forward and stay strong. Regardless of how hard it gets, always use the strength that drives you to do what you are meant to do and be who you are meant to be. Stop saying ‘I can’t do this’, instead, find resources, and do the best you can. You will make it someday.”
Pia also has a vision for Open Door Ministries: one where more families and community members get involved, not only to serve others but to enjoy the experience as well. “I’d love to see more volunteers get involved, mentor each other, and be the helping hand for the less fortunate in the community. Come volunteering at Open Door, and as you help someone, tell them, ‘Hey, we want you to smile today’.”
ABOUT OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES
Open Door Ministries is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping people regain their lives through supportive services and emergency assistance. Our programs and services are solution-oriented, and ministry minded, including the operation of a homeless shelter, serving daily meals, distributing non-perishable and fresh food, obtaining permanent housing, providing emergency assistance and acquiring and maintaining permanent jobs.
Our mission is "to serve, empower, and minister guests in order to prevent and end hunger and homelessness through advocacy, education, housing, and coordination of services."
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