It’s always a pleasure for us to honor those who have given their lives in service to others. Kelly and Carl Fellbaum have not only built a marriage of 32 years and raised a family of three daughters, they’ve also established a history of community volunteerism – fighting against type 1 diabetes in children, serving on education boards and advocating for counseling, to name a few. And over the last five years, the Fellbaums have given generously of their time and talents to support The Center. They currently serve as the Chairmen of the Foundation Board.
Kelly and Carl’s passion for counseling began when their oldest daughter started studying family counseling for her career. As they learned more themselves, they realized the power of counseling to improve individual lives, whole families, and even communities. This love for counseling coupled with their natural heart for service made The Ecumenical Center a perfect fit.
Kelly, a teacher of 10 years, found a vocation in helping and encouraging the young people in her life. Leading a Bible study for four-year-olds and volunteering with Kurios, a high school ministry that provides weekly lunch for juniors and seniors, have been two ways she’s lived that vocation. Kelly also serves on the Alamo Heights school foundation board.
“People are more isolated now than ever before. That’s why it’s so important for everyone to be part of a community. I have such a love for small groups – people who are there to support each other. And that’s why I love The Center. There are so many different support groups and programs, whether it’s for Veterans, bereavement support, therapeutic arts or counseling.”
For many years, Kelly’s been meeting with a small faith community of women. They’ve developed a tradition at Christmas time called Cheers for Charity. They pick a good cause to learn more about and then give to that organization instead of giving each other gifts. What a beautiful tradition!
Carl made both a vocation and a career from his passion of caring for the elderly. Carl is the CEO of Touchstone Communities, a long-term care, skilled nursing and rehabilitation company with locations all over Texas, including managing several Texas State Veteran’s homes. Their purpose is to “Glorify God through our gifts of healing and services.” His commitment to this purpose and providing the highest level of care for the elderly attracted him to The Center.
“We love the counseling support The Center provided for the people of Sutherland Springs and El Paso. They have an amazing staff that’s touched so many lives. The value they provide and the reach they have to so many communities is just incredible. It’s a privilege to be part of The Center.”
We want to thank the Fellbaums for their many years of service and wish them blessings as they look forward to becoming grandparents. We hope you’ll take some time to meet them at our next event!