Ivan Tsepilov: Spreading Kindness and Connection at St. Francis House
By Rachel Friederich, Serve Washington Communications
SEATTLE - For Ivan Tsepilov, volunteering isn't just an act of service - it's a reflection of family values, community resilience, and a lifelong belief in justice. Since 2023, Tsepilov has been a dedicated volunteer at St. Francis House Seattle, providing food, essential supplies, and emotional support to people facing homelessness and poverty.
Before immigrating to the United States, Tsepilov spent over 17 years as a human rights attorney in Russia, offering pro bono legal assistance to marginalized communities. "Helping others is deeply ingrained in me - it is a family tradition," he explains. "I grew up in a family of doctors who devoted themselves to saving others, even during times when we had no food in the house. Their example taught me that helping people is not just a responsibility, but a privilege."
Since joining the volunteer team at St. Francis House, Tsepilov has helped distribute clothing, hygiene items, and household necessities to more than 700 people.
Tsepilov says the most meaningful moments as a volunteer often come in small, quiet acts of care.
A taste of home
For example, One of Tsepilov's most beloved volunteer traditions is personally purchasing and bringing croissants to the visitors of St. Francis House. In 2023 alone, he brought and shared over 1,100 croissants - a gesture that has become a small but significant symbol of his care.
"Croissants are my favorite pastry. They remind me of home - warm, soft, and comforting," he shares. "When I started volunteering, I wanted to give something that would feel personal and welcoming. Food is more than nourishment - it's a symbol of hospitality, connection, and dignity."
Another time, just before Christmas, a man walked into St. Francis House in desperate need of shoes. His own were falling apart, and his size - 15 - made it nearly impossible to find replacements. Tsepilov took it upon himself to help, and together with the team, they were able to provide the man with properly fitting footwear.
But what stayed with Tsepilov wasn't just the shoes.
"He (the man) cried," he recalls. "Not from pain, but from the feeling that he mattered - that someone cared. That the world wasn't against him."
A mission that saves lives
Tsepilov believes that what volunteers give at St. Francis House isn't just material help - it's hope, dignity, and human connection.
"Some people come in with nothing," Tsepilov said." We offer them sleeping bags, blankets, backpacks - basic things that can literally save lives when you have nowhere to sleep."
Building bridges across borders
Volunteering has also brought Tsepilov into meaningful friendships. "I've met people from Angola, Colombia, and many other countries. Some become volunteers themselves. Others use their professions to give back. It's a powerful reminder that hardship can unite us, and kindness can create change."
A lifelong commitment to service
Today, Tsepilov dreams of continuing his journey of public service in the U.S. He hopes to one day earn a Master of Laws degree to practice law and continue his advocacy work.
"The legal system here is different from the one I knew, and education is very expensive - something I'm still working toward," he says. "But I believe deeply in helping others find their voice, and I hope to continue that mission here."
For now, Tsepilov says St. Francis House is only the beginning. "It's where I found a new sense of purpose and connection. It's a sanctuary. I hope to continue building something meaningful, one act of kindness at a time."
About St. Francis House Seattle
Founded in 1967, St. Francis House is a refuge for Seattle's most vulnerable. Each year, the nonprofit provides food, clothing, and essential supplies to more than 21,000 individuals - no questions asked. Their mission is simple: to serve those in need with dignity, love, and respect.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers play a vital role in the work of St. Francis House. Opportunities include:
• Sorting and distributing clothing
• Organizing hygiene and household essentials
• Preparing and sharing meals
• Offering conversation, kindness, and support to visitors
To learn more or to become a volunteer, visit www.stfrancishouseseattle.org, call (206) 268-0784, or email info@stfrancishouseseattle.org.
