Over 10 years ago, I began to think about the possibility of helping to provide bakery products for the Ronald McDonald Houses at two local hospitals for children, Egleston and Children’s Healthcare. I went to Publix where I had seen day-old bread, rolls, doughnuts and muffins being thrown away daily. I asked the manager if I could take these items to a worthy organization instead. He agreed and I began to take these treats to patients, families, and staff who greatly needed refreshing. Not long after, Publix asked me if I could use even more. They began to give me so many items, I could share with even more needy people. And now I was not just receiving donations of food. They were giving me flowers as well, to encourage and lift the spirits of the people I met.

Then an exciting thing happened. I began receiving similar donations from Costco, Kroger, and Trader Joe’s. Within 8 months, I was receiving so much great merchandise that I was delivering to needy people 7 days a week. Even though I had had a great career, nothing had ever brought me the satisfaction and joy of seeing what these gifts meant to the people receiving them. This was fun! It’s a good thing I was now retired and could pursue my new passion full time.

At about the same time, my wife Lucrecia and I began to read to children taking treatment at these hospitals. Actually, my wife would while I would play games with the children. I don’t know who enjoyed it most, us or them. The days are long for these confined children and sometimes even longer for their parents and the staff. The entertaining hours we spend there even today are a wonderful break for everyone.

Once I learned how much joy and satisfaction I could have by giving my time, I was hooked. Soon I was having other adventures in philanthropy. I can honestly say I have met some of the most interesting and inspirational people in my life through these adventures.