Groundhog Volunteer Hero: Paul Howell

This month’s volunteer spotlight shines on Paul Howell of Mentone. A retired attorney originally from Orlando, Paul and his wife, Charlette, moved here in 2017 from Atlanta. Paul was nominated by a reader for his tireless work in service to the community.

For the past five years, Paul has given his time to the St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church Food Pantry, a ministry he joined after meeting the church’s former Rector Bill Winters. Paul and a team of other volunteers gather each Tuesday to organize loads of canned goods, produce, meats, and pet food before the food pantry clients arrive on Wednesday. They then work all morning helping get the food out the door to take home with them. Paul often helps the church respond to those who need assistance in other ways, such as utilities, and he serves in support of the church’s Sunday services.

Giving praise to all his fellow workers, Paul says the best thing about the weekly food pantry is working with a great team. The ministry is a well-oiled operation, with each person responsible for a specific task. He also volunteered at the food bank in Atlanta, and he is a past president of the DeKalb County Master Gardeners.

Thank you, Paul, for your compassion and dedication to your fellow citizens.