United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) recent graduate Billie Botes’ commitment to service found a powerful home at the Marian House Kitchen, where she began volunteering three years ago.
Athletic community USAFA cadets have been volunteering for the Marian House Sunday meal since 2013, sending different athletic teams each Sunday during their semesters. That is how Billie first volunteered, in her sophomore year, with her boxing team. She loved it so much, she quickly made it a regular part of her Sundays, volunteering independently from the athletic community program. Her consistent presence and warm demeanor made her a familiar and uplifting figure to the Marian House guests, her fellow volunteers, and the staff. David Allee, the Weekend Operations Manager, noted how Billie brought “smiles and laughter,” listening attentively to guests and offering encouragement—qualities that made a lasting impression.
Billie’s commitment to Marian House extended beyond individual service. She invited her fellow cadets from the USAFA boxing team to join her regularly, turning volunteerism into a consistent team-building experience for the boxing team. Those shared Sundays strengthened bonds among teammates and reinforced their team motto: “Tough times don’t last; tough people do.” The experience also deepened their understanding of the Air Force core value “Service Before Self,” as they witnessed firsthand the impact of service and compassion for the guests at Marian House.
One of the most profound outcomes of Billie’s volunteering at Marian House was her relationship with Marine veteran Carl Lewis, who had been homeless for 25 years. Through months of trust-building, Billie helped connect Carl to Rocky Mountain Human Services, ultimately securing him permanent housing. Her ability to relate to Carl as a fellow member of the military community, combined with her steady presence at Marian House, made all the difference.
Billie’s story is a powerful example of caring for our neighbors. Every connection has the power to uplift, to breathe life into aspirations, and to transform lives.
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