Our team of volunteers and staff is what makes Ciudad Nueva great. We have a special love for our staff, who dedicate their time, work, and prayers to continue our mission in the El Paso community. In August this year, we had to say goodbye to a staff member that’s very dear to us. In this tribute to Joe Gavaldon, we reflected on his selfless service and meaningful ministry.
Several members of our staff shared memories they made with Joe over the years. He touched many lives through his time at Ciudad Nueva and spent countless hours being our handyman, supply stocker, and mentor. When our staff was in need, Joe was always there to step up and make sure that the need was met.
Tamy, who serves as our Community Connector, described Joe as, “an amazing mentor, friend, and co-worker.” Before she began her work at Ciudad Nueva, Tamy met Joe in a difficult time. Her family’s refrigerator suddenly stopped working.
Without hesitation, Joe came to help.
He told her, “Don’t worry. We will see what we can do, Tamy.”
“He went out of his way to bring a fridge to our family when we needed it!” Tamy shared. “The words for our family ‘not to worry’ meant so much. And that is what he does: He takes care of everyone like a father would.”
Our Middle School Coordinator and Office Manager, Lexi, was also impacted by Joe’s heart for people. Lexi described Joe’s continuous efforts to “serve and love our community.” He provided guidance and support to her as she took on the role that he had established and held as Middle School Coordinator. Joe also took Lexi on countless “van adventures” to assist Ciudad Nueva’s mission, saying “Let’s go, Lex!”
“Whether it was going shopping for Ciudad Nueva supplies, picking up donations, or dropping off the van to be fixed at an auto shop, every adventure is memorable.”
It was evident to our staff that Joe sought the Lord in all that he did at Ciudad Nueva. He was not only a hardworking staff member, but a prayer warrior and an example of a selfless servant of God.
Sami DiPasquale, Ciudad Nueva’s former Executive Director, described Joe as, “a servant leader,” offering his skills in multiple roles. Sami shared, “I can’t imagine where Ciudad Nueva would be without Joe.”
Lexi reflected, “I will miss him at Ciudad Nueva and all of the jokes he told, but I am grateful to now to have a lifelong friend! Joe is a gift to us all.”
Joe has made such a difference in the lives of our staff and in our community. In his service and dedication, he moved us closer to accomplishing our mission of embodying Christ in our community. We are sad to see Joe leave Ciudad Nueva, but we pray for a peaceful and happy retirement. Thank you for your service, Joe!
Would you like to get involved in a community that loves and cares for one another? We would love to have you as part of ours. Call us today at 915-521-2951 or contact us online.
