Dedicated El Paso Volunteer Makes a Difference
Salvation Army units rely on volunteers for a wide spectrum of activities. Perhaps most notably, the iconic Red Kettle campaign helps to support The Salvation Army financially while the sound of a ringing bell serves as a reminder of the organization’s work in communities across the globe. Volunteer efforts go well beyond bellringing, however, and each individual or family lending a helping hand is crucial to uplifting those The Salvation Army serves. In El Paso, Texas, Felix Casas embodies that ideal with dedication and a clear contribution to the overall mission.
Casas first became acquainted with The Salvation Army through his daughter, Nancy, who is an attorney and serves as an auxiliary board member in El Paso. Casas is also a member of the Zaragoza Rotary Club of El Paso, and it was there that he encountered Brenda Sanchez, special events and volunteer coordinator for The Salvation Army in El Paso.
Quickly, Casas became an integral part of The Salvation Army as a reliable and trusted volunteer, particularly with the preparation of food boxes distributed to those in need.
“I prepare 15 food boxes in the morning, but they are gone in 24 hours,” Casas explains. “It is a reminder that the fight against hunger is an ongoing challenge, but I know we are making an impact.”
“Felix has made a significant impact through his dedication to preparing food boxes,” Sanchez remarks. “That plays a huge role in feeding the El Paso community.”
Casas, who retired in 2012 after more than four decades working for American Airlines, has accumulated hundreds of hours of volunteer service for The Salvation Army. He was recognized as the Volunteer of the Year for El Paso during National Salvation Army Week in 2023, and Casas is renowned for his kind spirit.
“He is quiet, friendly, and just likes to help out,” says Joanna Estrada, public relations manager.
“Felix is a quiet person who loves helping out in the community,” Sanchez comments. “If you ask him for help, he’s likely to say yes about 90 percent of the time. He’s also still involved with the Zaragoza Rotary Club and has great relationships in the community.”
Casas continues to volunteer on a near-weekly basis in El Paso’s food pantry. He has also lent his hand to assist other Salvation Army programs, including aid in the local migrant processing center.
“Whenever we have a project at The Salvation Army that needs volunteers, we know we can always count on Felix,” Estrada declares.
Though Casas does not seek acclaim or recognition, he is a beaming reminder of the positive influence that one dedicated individual can have. To a person, all who serve alongside Casas in El Paso speak glowingly of not only his practical contributions to helping others, but also of his character and spirit.
“It’s important for people to understand that you don’t need to donate money to make a difference,” Sanchez says. “Just giving your time as a volunteer like Felix does can really help out. What he does allows us to help more people.”