The Catholic Sun :: Phoenix Diocesan Newspaper

GOODYEAR — Hundreds took steps to help St. Joseph the Worker Job Service assist the homeless during its annual Hike for the Homeless March 3 at Estrella Mountain Regional Park.

The job agency specializes in helping the disadvantaged secure permanent, full-time employment.

Trisha Sandoval knows that as well as anyone.

When she was released from the Maricopa County Jail, the ministry helped her write a résumé and cover letters to potential employers. She has been employed for almost two years now.

She shared her testimony with hikers.

Volunteer Joe Koller believes in the service St. Joseph the Worker offers. He became involved through a friend.

“How do you explain a gap in your résumé because of drugs or alcohol?” Koller asked.

“These people help them do that,” he said of the organization. “I was just floored by it.”

Amy Caffarello, executive director of St. Joseph the Worker, thanked Standard Pacific Homes, the hike’s lead sponsor who donated $15,000. More than 125 of their employees also came to hike. Others also donated money in support of the organization.

With 141 registrants, Xavier College Preparatory had the largest team of hikers.

“This event raises awareness that St. Joseph the Worker exists, awareness of its mission,” said Alyssa Crockett, team leader from Xavier.

This year’s Hike for the Homeless netted around $30,000 — $5,000 more than last year.

“One of biggest obstacles in serving homeless is the stereotypes,” Caffarello said. “We try to help people know homelessness can happen to anyone because of a variety of circumstances.”

Registrations for next year’s hike can be submitted now. Information about the “working poor tax credit” donations can be found on the St. Joseph the Worker Web site at www.sjwjobs.org.

Money and donations of items such as work clothing and bicycles in good working order are useful. These items are given away to those in need. Volunteers are always needed to teach the job and life skills classes.

“Please come and take a look at what is going on down here. You will be amazed. It will change the way you look at the homeless,” Caffarello said.

For a tour, to volunteer or make a donation, call (602) 417-9854. For more information, visit www.sjwjobs.org.