A Journey of Service
“We loved riding bikes, loved travelling, and loved helping others. Why not put all three together?” - Katarina Auer
Bikes are not an uncommon site at St. Joseph Diner. Those experiencing homelessness spend their days on foot, some have the blessing of having a bike to aid them in going to and fro.
Several months ago, however, a unique set of bikes made their way to our grounds.
I happened to call Katarina Auer after her volunteer service at St. Joseph Diner. I don’t quite remember why I reached out, but when I did, I learned that Katarina and her husband, Brian, were not local volunteers. This, of course, sparked my curiosity.
“Where were they from and how did they end up serving at St. Joseph Diner?” I inquired.
I learned in casual conversation that this unique couple was from Iowa, and had arrived in Lafayette, Lousiana....on bikes. I learned that the pair loved riding bikes, loved travelling, and loved to help others. And so, they decided to put their three passions together creating an epic journey of faith, adventure, and service.
“We started in Winterset, Iowa,” said Katarina, “and rode to Tallahassee, Florida, New Orleans, and to Lafayette. When planning, we let God guide us. We look for safe roads & amenities like lodging, water sources, food sources, and volunteer opportunities.”
To find lodging along the way, the couple used the online resource: warmshowers.org. In Lafayette, they selected lodging with a host family who happened to be regular volunteers (scheduled the next day to serve!) at St. Joseph Diner.
Their host family invited Katarina and Brian to join them as volunteers at St. Joseph Diner - and they loved every minute of their service! “We were impressed with the high efficiency process that allowed the kitchen to stay organized, on the same page, and feed many people in the community. The paid staff was incredibly friendly, patient, and gave great direction. The food was wholesome, healthy, and satisfying. That shows so much care!” said Katarina.
I asked Katarina what they would “take away” with them as they move on in their journey. She said, “With us, we will take the knowledge we gained working at St. Joseph's Diner. The processes and function of the soup kitchen were on point and will benefit other soup kitchens!”
Safe travels, Katarina, and Brian!
Find a creative way to serve in our programs! Reach out to our Volunteer Experience Coordinator, Sarah Baquet, at sarahb@catholiccharitiesacadiana.org or (337) 235-4972 x1222