By 7 a.m. every Thursday, Paul Haines is already on the road, driving a Twin Lakes Food Bank truck to Sam’s Club to pick up donations. Back at the food bank, he sorts donations with staff, sets up the produce tables, weighs guest shopping carts and jumps in wherever he’s needed.
But if you spend a Thursday morning at the produce stand, you’ll notice something else about Paul: he knows how to have a little fun.
Some Thursdays you might even find Paul sorting produce, which occasionally turns into juggling—and the kids love it. Their giggles quickly spread through the produce stand, bringing smiles to guests and staff. With his easygoing personality, quick humor and almost constant smile, Paul has a way of making the busiest mornings feel a little lighter.
He also knows when to put the work aside and simply be present with a guest.
“Some are joyful and others are hurting. Just respect them for what they’re going through.”
That understanding has grown through Paul’s three years at the food bank. One conversation that has stayed with him was with a grandmother caring for her grandchildren. She shared how she brought neighbors together to cook meals so everyone could eat. Meanwhile, she continued to encourage her adult children to stay employed and support themselves.
Paul was struck by her determination to care for her family and neighbors.
“I was so moved by her resilience and purpose to make a better life for her loved ones. We both left the conversation knowing more about one another.”
Before retiring, Paul managed sales teams in telecommunications. These days, he enjoys cycling, skiing, kayaking, traveling and spending time with his three grandchildren. Volunteering has become another way he spends his time—and one he hopes others will discover.
For Paul, volunteering is about more than getting the job done. It’s about showing up, lending a hand, sharing a laugh and making someone’s day a little brighter.
