Catholic family's foundation in San Antonio helps those in need

Published: 2006-06-30

SAN ANTONIO (CNS) -- In the making of distilled spirits, there is the tradition of the "angel's share" -- a portion that evaporates as part of the natural distilling process. In San Antonio, a family has taken this concept to heart in their efforts to meet small but urgent needs in the community. Three years ago, the family anonymously founded a nonprofit Archangel Foundation to help individuals in need. They selected Roberto Pina as the executive director, based on his 25 years of work in various church ministries. Pina said the family that set up the foundation had discussed during a vacation the many blessings they had received and felt it was time that they gave something back to the community. They decided that even with their limited resources they should try to help others. "You always think of philanthropists as having the millions to give," said Pina. He described what this family has attempted as an experiment in microphilanthropy, because the family had hundreds of dollars to donate instead of millions. Since its founding, the foundation has met seemingly small needs, but all have been a matter of urgency for the recipients of funds. All assistance is given on a one-time basis.

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