Robert True is from Chicago and a member of St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church. He heard about La Posada from Father Frank Latzko, pastor, and fellow parishioner Claire Kenkel. (Claire volunteered as an ESL teacher for La Posada this past Christmas). When asked about his expectations before coming to La Posada and how his actual experience compared, he said that after hearing Claire’s testimony it was difficult not to have expectations.  However, he believes in taking things as they come with an open mind and heart. Robert learned Spanish in the 1960’s while living in Veracruz, Mexico near sugar cane plantations. At that time, tuberculosis was endemic in that region; taking a child’s life every day.  He worked with doctors providing vaccines and medical attention.

Robert updates his personal page on social media frequently and many of his friends/followers tell him that they admire what he is doing (volunteering for La Posada). He counters the praise by telling followers not to admire him, but to learn and admire the journey of La Posada’s clients. He added that among his favorite people at La Posada are the babies. He is the oldest of eight siblings, and has been caring for young children all his life. “I am better with baby girls than older women” he joked.

Robert’s advice to anyone interested in volunteering at La Posada is the same advice he followed when he worked in the food business: “one plate at a time” meaning “one person at a time”.  That is how he engaged with La Posada’s staff and clients. In Robert’s words, “Come to La Posada if you want to learn to be a peasant, and not a king.”