In 2020, we said goodbye to a beloved friend and Project Sanctuary’s longest-serving board member, Rand Case. To honor his incredible legacy of service and heart, we created the Rand Case Volunteer of the Year Award—an award that celebrates those who truly embody our mission, recognize the deep needs of our military families, and give of themselves with unwavering dedication. Nominated by our staff and board, this year’s honor goes to an extraordinary volunteer who has made a lasting impact: Alvin and Jill Mondragon.
“From the very beginning, Alvin and Jill have shown an incredible level of heart and commitment, always stepping in, giving generously, and lifting up everyone around them. Their impact on our families and team has been truly special, and we’re so grateful that their journey has grown from retreat participants to volunteers with us,” said Missy Hyatt, Chief Programs Officer.
Below, Jill shares why they are such passionate volunteers for Project Sanctuary and why they chose to get involved.
Being part of Project Sanctuary is something I don’t take lightly, it really is such an honor.
We first got connected back in 2018 when we attended a family retreat in Granby as a couple. At the time, we were just showing up for the experience, not realizing how much it would stick with us. We came back again in 2019 for a couples retreat in Maryland, and that’s when it really clicked. We knew we didn’t just want to attend anymore; we wanted to be involved in a bigger way and give back.
So we started volunteering… and honestly, they haven’t gotten rid of us yet (haha).
It’s hard to pick just one favorite experience because there have been so many meaningful moments. But the one that has stayed with me the most was seeing a family come back together after being apart. The mom had moved out, and during the retreat, they were able to reconnect and start reconciling. Getting to witness that, and even play a small part in it, was incredible. That’s the kind of thing that sticks with you.
Even now that we’re on staff, we still find ways to volunteer, whether that’s helping at retreats or doing things like cleaning Patriot Pines. It matters to us to keep giving back because this place has given so much to us. In a lot of ways, we feel like we are Project Sanctuary.
If someone is on the fence about volunteering, just be like Nike and DO IT!! You will NOT be disappointed, you will be blessed and wonder why you didn't do it sooner!
We have such a beautiful culture in Project Sanctuary that people start volunteering and don't want to stop....and that's a beautiful thing!!
Thank you, Jill and Alvin, for your service to our military families!
