October Volunteer of the Month, Paul Z.

We are excited to introduce Paul Z., our October Volunteer of the Month. Paul volunteers in many different areas across JFS, including as an Adaptive Bike Companion, helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities enjoy the outdoors through cycling.

Staff member Maria shared:

"Paul has gone above and beyond to help the Adaptive Bike Program in a variety of ways. Whether it's pivoting to help us with a last-minute maintenance need or supporting the participants to feel as safe as possible on their bikes, he consistently acts with so much kindness and patience. We are so very lucky to have him!"

Read more about Paul's volunteer impact below:

‍Q: Tell us about yourself and your background.

‍PZ: As a retired plastic surgeon, I now have more time to pursue other interests, including travel, outdoor recreation (hiking, cycling, snow sports).

I attended Yeshiva through high school, before college, dental school, and medical school.

My wife and I moved to Colorado in 1984, where our two children grew up. My two grandchildren are also here, in Denver.

‍Q: What volunteer role do you have with JFS, and what roles have you had with JFS?

‍PZ: JFS Altius Farms, Food Box Delivery Driver, Adaptive Cycling.

‍Q: What motivated you to begin volunteering with JFS?

‍PZ: I began volunteering with JFS last year, welcoming the opportunity to contribute and engage with our community. Volunteering has been a long-standing part of my life to fulfill the mandate of Tikkun Olam. As a plastic surgeon, I have been on reconstructive surgical mission trips on four continents. Currently, I also volunteer with We Don't Waste, bringing food surplus from restaurants and bakeries to those in need.

Q: What's your favorite part about volunteering with JFS, and how has being a JFS volunteer impacted your life?

‍PZ: Volunteering offers the opportunity to engage with members of our community and meet new people. I have found great gratification in meeting and supporting the less fortunate and those in need among us.

Q: Do you have a memorable story about your JFS volunteer experience to share?

PZ: As a Food Box Delivery Driver, some of the recipients would greet me with a warm welcome, invite me into their homes to sit and chat, even though speaking in English was a challenge for them.

‍Q: What would you say to someone considering volunteering with JFS?

‍PZ: There is enormous satisfaction and pleasure in joining among people at JFS, who are dedicated to meaningful service and humanitarianism, as well as the gratification in meeting with those we serve.

‍Are you interested in volunteering? Learn more and sign up today.