IGNITING CHANGE: CHARLIE

Charlie Hoffman’s story is one of dedication, friendship, and unwavering service. Charlie has been committed to making a difference in his community for the past eight years by volunteering with Feed the Need Missions. Even in retirement, his spirit of service burns brightly, illuminating the lives of those around him.

His journey has been marked by unforgettable experiences, including serving during Hurricane Harvey and the Franklin tornado. Charlie’s faith has been his guiding light in the face of danger. He vividly recalls the treacherous conditions during flood rescues, where the reality of rushing waters starkly contrasted with television portrayals.

“When we got to the family we were helping, there were 8 of us in the boat. It was almost midnight when we hit swift water, but we made it back safely. I was thanking God.” Despite the risks, Charlie’s resolve remained unshaken because of his trust in God’s unwavering power.

But Charlie’s service extends beyond disaster response. Every Monday, he extends a helping hand to his 92-year-old friend, Gordon Powell. Together, they tend to Powell’s cows, then get the Feed the Need Missions’ trailer to take to the Stony Point site.

For the past four to five years, Charlie has been pulling a trailer as part of his volunteer routine for Feed the Need Missions. Through his years of volunteering, Charlie has gleaned invaluable wisdom: the realization that faithful service to God comes from serving others by extending the love, kindness, and compassion of Jesus Christ.

While taking responsibility for a trailer might not seem like a significant task, Charlie’s story demonstrates how this seemingly simple way to volunteer opens the door to building meaningful relationships while, at the same time, meeting the physical and spiritual needs of those around him.

“Be kind and compassionate to one another…” Ephesians 4:32