Written by Chris Collier, Director of Communications at Autobahn, Huper Optik, and Edge
I was determined to be a sports journalist at the onset of my studies at Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville, Ga. I had mapped out my entire career during my time as a Mass Communication major.
But God revealed even better plans after an assignment for my school newspaper in Fall 2019.
Helping Others
“That’s the reason I got into social work — to help people,” shared then-86-year-old Doyle Boyd, who started volunteering at Meals on Wheels after retiring from a career in social work in 2000.
Meals on Wheels is a program that delivers meals to individuals at home who are unable to purchase or prepare their own meals. I interviewed members of Meals on Wheels of Baldwin County, Ga., in Fall 2019. Boyd’s goal, like millions of volunteers around the nation, was simple. He wanted to serve others.
I remember sitting on a bench with Boyd as Meals on Wheels volunteers loaded up their cars with food for those in need. He was so proud to share his story.
That same morning, I chatted with Program Coordinator Carol Agee.
“My parents were both sick — I was an only child — and they had cancer,” shared Agee, who joined the organization in 1984 after witnessing its power to feed the ill first-hand. “Someone put them on there [Meals on Wheels] to help me out.”
Agee added, “We served a lady who had lost her legs — Ms. Kelsey. And every day, she’d hug your neck and thank you for bringing her lunch. She was special.”
A New Mission
After meeting with members of Meals on Wheels of Baldwin County, Ga., I felt led to make a difference in my own, small way. Their selfless pursuit to help others had inspired me.
Following that Meals on Wheels project, I have shared the stories of collegiate athletes, neighbors, academic advisors, fellow journalists, and, of course, window film industry professionals. I pivoted into a mission focused on people. I became more intentional with the questions I asked my interview subjects. I was there to serve them.
No matter the topic, my mission remains the same. I want to write stories that make others feel valued, cared for, and seen.
Now in my 27th year of life, I truly believe every single person on this planet has a purpose that extends beyond dollar signs. I live to lift up others.
And no amount of awards or likes could match the gratification of that mission; the mission to make others feel appreciated for their work and their life.
Thank you for the opportunity to share your stories. It is an honor.
– Chris