ACSTL Staff Spotlight - Mary and Joe
Throughout the year on Tuesdays from 8am-1pm, our facility is welcoming to all of our unhoused neighbors. We provide showers, breakfast, lunch, clothing and outreach services like medical help, mental health and housing assistance.
We’re grateful to have dedicated staff to assist our unhoused services. Please get to know Mary and Joe!
Mary and Joe work endlessly to care for our unhoused guests. They're on the frontline to lend a helping hand to those in need. It can be difficult work but building relationships with a smile comes easy for them. Thanks for your compassion and hard work, Mary and Joe!
MARY HOELTERHOFF - Shelter Supervisor
How long have you been the Shelter Supervisor?
Just as Covid was arriving in St Louis, March 2020.
Why did you get involved?
Previously I was volunteering for “St. Louis Homeless Winter Outreach” as an Outreach Volunteer. Through that involvement, I learned that Chris Romer was running showers at AmeriCorps St. Louis and I started volunteering to help out.
What's most enjoyable about the role?
People expressing their gratitude. And observing people who have been chronically unhoused for years, who now have housing and support systems.
Do you have a favorite moment from your time as Supervisor?
Seeing a guest in his new chef uniform.
Any other details you'd like to share with the ACSTL community?
We always need men’s sneakers, boxers, belts and large sizes of body wash, conditioner & shampoo. Contact us to learn more!
JOE KOCH - Shelter Coordinator
“I'm impressed by the character and commitment of everyone at AmeriCorps, and I'm proud to be a member of this unparalleled team! I look forward to seeing this organization grow and continue to serve the community and nation in so many amazing and diverse ways.”
How long have you been Shelter Coordinator?
I have been a shelter coordinator at AmeriCorps since November 2022.
How did you get involved?
After completing 20 years in the Air Force I began volunteering with Tent Mission STL and Winter Outreach to serve our unhoused neighbors and establish connections in the community. Through these efforts I learned about the opportunities at AmeriCorps, first helping to run the winter pop-up shelter and now providing essential services to those experiencing homelessness.
What's most enjoyable about the role?
The opportunity to form personal connections with our guests, understand their needs, and connect them with service providers for medical, mental health, and housing assistance.
Do you have a favorite moment?
While there have been many humorous and lighthearted moments, nothing compares to seeing someone improve their situation. For example, receiving much-needed medical attention or moving off the street and into stable housing.