LEWISTON – “The purpose of this evening is to celebrate the dream of 1990 and to pay tribute to the volunteers who helped make that dream a reality,” said Executive Director Bro. Irenee Richard, OP, concerning the 15th anniversary celebration of the St. Martin de Porres Residence.

Since 1991, the residence for homeless men and women has provided what has been called “an oasis in the midst of turmoil” to members of the community who have encountered difficulties beyond their control.

“It has provided,” said Richard, “a safe space, an environment in which they can come in and catch their breath, be secure, focus on what has happened to them and on what they must do to move on.”

“And all of this,” he said, “is made possible through the goodness of volunteers and benefactors who don’t hesitate to share their talents, time and resources.” In the past 15 years, St. Martin de Porres volunteers have contributed more than 41,000 hours of their time to help more than 2,400 individuals from all walks of life.

The 15th anniversary celebration is open to the public and will be held at the Martindale Country Club at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 29. The evening will include a social hour, a buffet dinner, a retrospective and tribute to volunteers past and present, and a musical entertainment program by Magic and Company.

Tables accommodating parties of up to 10 people are available by reservation only. For more information and to make reservations, call 753-6260.