Volunteer Diaries: Father Joe’s Villages

For nearly 17 years, Jeff Javier, his wife Jina, and their two children have been at the heart of Father Joe’s Villages, San Diego’s largest homeless services provider, as dedicated volunteers. As the organization celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2025, its story embodies the compassion and commitment that make Father Joe’s Villages a lifeline for more than 2,500 people nightly.

From providing shelter and healthcare to offering job training and therapeutic childcare, the impact of this mission is undeniable. With nearly 274,000 shelter bed nights and over 300 permanent housing transitions recorded in 2024 alone, it’s a community-driven effort redefining hope. We caught up with Javier to discuss what it’s like to volunteer with the organization.

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What made you want to volunteer for this organization?

Jeff Javier (JJ): I started volunteering when my wife was pregnant with our daughter in 2008. I saw a father in a busy intersection on Mira Mesa Blvd holding a sign that said he needed food for himself, his wife, and his kids. I felt terrible that he was in his situation, which made me want to help. I gave him a gift card but knew that wasn’t the solution. So that’s when I contacted Father Joe’s Village.

What do your volunteer duties entail?

JJ: I greet and welcome each guest, serve food at my assigned table, clean up after the guests, hand out drinks, and improve a stranger’s day.

Can you describe your favorite or most memorable experience while volunteering?

JJ: My most memorable volunteering experience happened at a July 4 special meal. There was a large group of military volunteers. I immediately recognized one of the women as a former fifth grade student of mine whom I hadn’t seen in maybe 15 years. We exchanged life updates, and I expressed my congratulations on her life path.

Any advice for someone considering volunteering as a way to get involved with their community?

JJ: My advice is to sign up and experience the feeling of helping hundreds of strangers have a better day. The appreciation the guests give in return is priceless.