Volunteer Spotlight- Paul

Paul’s heart for serving was shaped by his deep faith and years of ministry As a pastoral care chaplain, Paul describes his role like a shepherd: whoever is in front of him is who God has entrusted to his care.

He meets guests one-on-one, asks about their story, prays with them on the spot, and helps connect them with next steps, whether that’s a program like culinary training or simply encouragement for one more day. He refuses to see anyone as a label or a project; they are a person first, made in God’s image.

Over the years, Paul has learned not to judge someone by their situation or why they are here, but to ask their name, hear their journey, and walk with them in dignity and respect. He sees the mission not just as a place to “get by for today,” but as a place where people can build lifelong skills, experience hope, and feel like honored guests.

When people ask him for advice about volunteering, Paul points them to the many ways to serve—from people-focused roles like his, to behind-the-scenes work in the warehouse or sorting donations. His message is simple: God has given each of us treasures, talents, and time and volunteering is one beautiful way to invest those gifts into God’s kingdom.

What keeps Paul coming back, year after year, is seeing God at work in the “small wins” like a guest taking one next step, a spark of hope in someone’s eyes, a prayer answered, a heart encouraged. Those moments remind him that God truly cares for each person, and that every conversation matters.

We want to say a heartfelt THANK YOU, Paul, for Your compassion, prayers, and presence with our guests and your faithfulness in serving our community and pointing people to God’s love.