SHINE began in the summer of 2000 by Augie and Dawn Leal as a desire to serve those in need from their parish youth group. Augie & Dawn have been involved in youth ministry in the Archdiocese of Galveston / Houston for over 20 years. Together they have done numerous retreats. Augie also shares his gift of music in parishes, concerts and youth rallies across the country throughout the year.
When coming up with the name it only made sense to call it "SHINE" It stands for Serving Him In the Needy and Elderly. It has always been the vision of the Leals to empower teens to live out their baptismal call to serve those in need. "We have all been giving that power to make a difference" says Augie. They have always had a passion for leading teens and for serving God's people. They minister as a family and it brings them great joy to see their own kids learn to love a life of service.
In the 3rd year of SHINE while finishing up a camp in Bunke LA and after questioning their abilities to run a camp as a married couple with 3 little ones. Augie, Dawn and their 3 children age 4,2 & 1 knelt before the blessed sacrament and asked for God's guidance in continuing doing SHINE as a family. The prayer was a simple one that asked God if it was his will for them to continue to please show them and if it was not to show them as well. After a brief prayer and a few tears they began to walk out of the room. Their 2 yr old daughter Allysa reached down and picked up a small object and said "Here Mommy this is for you" Tears of Joy and excitement filled both of their eyes because what she picked up was a inexpensive small medal of the Holy Family. Since that day they have made it their mission to minister as a family. And they continue to live it to this day.
When they aren't running around at SHINE summer after summer making sure everything is running smooth. Augie can Dawn can be found being "Principal" and "Teacher" to their homeschooled children. Augie can also be found sharing his music and retreat ministry around the country. Dawn also runs her Creative Memories business on the side.
The Leal's are honored and humbled to be able to be involved with SHINE and are proud of their efforts in creating a unique Catholic experience. Apparently they are doing what God has called them to do because today there are other work camps that are modeling themselves after SHINE. What's even more exciting is that they get to be part of Gods Holy Family through all the volunteers they work with.
They currently live in Tomball TX with their 3 children. JaiMichael, Allysa & Jordan and their dog Jaz.
To find out more about Augie's music go to:
To find out more about Dawn's Creative Memories business, go to: www.mycmsite.com/dawnleal