A Heart of Service
Shine City Project volunteers
Instead of the glitz and glam associated with celebrating the new year, Unificationists in Las Vegas rang in 2022 serving more than 100 homeless people.
“Our Shine City Project team of volunteers spent time at the Las Vegas Rescue Mission helping to pack meals for those in need,” said director Jeff Silerio.
On Jan. 2, a group of seven volunteers put together hot meals for vulnerable members of the community in need of help. A nonprofit Christian organization, Las Vegas Rescue Mission (LVRM) was established in 1970 by a pastor and several businessmen. For more than 50 years it has operated solely on the compassion and support of fellow community members, churches, businesses, and other organizations.
“The meals we prepared consisted of french fries and chili, chicken and rice, as well as bread, chips, and a cookie,” said Silerio. “In total, we packed a few hundred meals for the homeless. Afterwards, our volunteers did some kitchen prep, washing potatoes and cutting onions and other produce.”
Since its inception in 2013, Shine City Project has been a collaborative effort of Unificationists dedicated to transforming Las Vegas from Sin City to Shine City. What began nine years ago as a volunteer street cleanup off the Las Vegas Strip has expanded citywide and beyond city limits.
“In a city of lust, greed, and self-indulgence, Shine City Project challenges the Las Vegas culture of self-centeredness to become one of selflessness,” said Silerio.
Throughout the years Shine City Project has partnered with numerous organizations and causes, including LVRM. With homelessness a rampant issue, LVRM provides a meal and care for as little as $2.17, according to its website. Care services range from emergency shelter and basic needs, to various programs, including one for addiction recovery. A thrift store and prayer requests are also available.
“By building leaders of heart and character who can share love and compassion for others and the environment, we are able to create a more loving and caring community,” said Silerio. “This, in turn, can create a more loving and peaceful world.”
Shine City Project volunteers also recognize the important impact of serving the community to make a difference.
“If a change can happen in Las Vegas, a change can happen everywhere,” said one volunteer. “We hope that this could be a great start for the new year!”
Shine City Project will revisit Las Vegas Rescue Mission on Jan. 29. A service project at a local high school is also coming up.
You can learn more about the Shine City Project here.
