First Things First is celebrating the commitment of nearly 50 volunteers who have served on a regional partnership council for a decade.

Last week we introduced you to some of these 10-year FTF volunteers from different regions throughout Arizona. Each profile is followed by a complete list of the members in that regional area who have served for 10 years. Regardless of their location or affiliations, these individuals share one common trait: they are passionate about improving the lives of young children in their communities. They are true champions for children.

Please read about FTF La Paz/Mohave Regional Council member Pastor Jose Garcia:

The motto of Pastor Jose Garcia’s parish is, “We are called to serve.”

He models that to his parishioners through his professional work, but also through his volunteer service, which includes a seat on the La Paz/Mohave Regional Partnership Council.

“Each of us has a unique set of skills and abilities, and when we put those to use in service to others, it makes a big difference,” he said.

On the regional council, each member brings a unique perspective that makes for rich dialogue and well thought-out decisions.

“Through the regional council, I have been able to share so much of my experience in terms of the needs of families,” Garcia said. “At the same time, I have learned so much, and I have been able to use all that I’ve learned in my ministry and with my own family.”

Garcia said he particularly enjoys being able to visit the programs the region funds, as well as community events benefitting young children and their families.

“We had one event where we collected and distributed over 300 books,” he said. “Seeing the children, knowing that the one book would mean countless hours of quality time spent with a parent or a grandparent, was really rewarding.”

He said the fellowship he has found with the other members of the regional council and community stakeholders with whom they work makes even the toughest challenges easier to face.

“We have incredible challenges in our community – poverty, lack of transportation, and in many areas, a lack of providers for services,” he said. “But we are committed to working together. We know that together, we can get over those challenges and really make a difference.”

After 10 years on the council, including his current term as Vice Chair, Garcia doesn’t see himself stopping or slowing down. “I truly enjoy the work we are doing; the impact we are having,” he said. “And, I’ll continue because we’re called to serve.”

10 years of service
FTF West Regional Area