Origin Stories: Joseph Yanez

By Bruce Cooper and Chris Peterson

Joseph Yanez grew up in a military family where discipline, hard work, and service were a way of life. His dad was strict and demanding, especially with Joseph and his brothers, and there were high expectations, no shortcuts, and a constant reminder that "character matters."  

While his dad's tough love could be difficult, it also planted a seed deep in Joseph's heart. He learned that true strength wasn't about just being tough, but about lifting people up. As he got older, that desire to help others never left and eventually led him to work at St. Vincent de Paul. He originally served in the Sunnyslope neighborhood, where he served food to the homeless and beautified the community. 

He eventually became the driver of the water truck, where he would drive throughout the valley, delivering water, food boxes, clothes, shoes, hats and other essentials to the homeless on the streets. It is an especially important program during the summer, when searing temperatures kill hundreds of people experiencing homelessness every year. 

Even during crisis resulting from natural disasters, like floods and wildfires, Joseph was on the road, often for long hours, delivering essentials to the most vulnerable communities across our state, delivering hope, help, and human kindness when it was needed most. 

After years and years of service, Joseph has decided it's time to retire, but his impact throughout the years has been felt by thousands of his neighbors.