For 85-year-old Fred Grampp, volunteering runs in the family. His parents were dairy farmers and avid 4-H leaders in Dover, Delaware. “The love of service” he says, “was just a normal part of our life.”

Even through his career in lumber and construction, Fred was volunteering. He has served as President of the local 4-H club. He was named Kiwanian of the Year of the Texas-Oklahoma District by the Kiwanis Club. In 1983, Fred helped start the local Blue Santa gift donation program which is still going strong after 40 years. And, he has previously served as President of the Hill Country Community Ministries—HCCM—an organization that’s close to his heart.

HCCM provides food, clothing, and other assistance to families across Central Texas and the Hill Country. Kandy Chimento, Director of Operations at HCCM tells us: “He’s been here since the beginning, volunteering. He’s a great advocate for us.”

In the early 80’s, Fred helped establish the HCCM thrift store. What started as a series of garage sales is now a bright and vibrant space that brings in much-needed program revenue. Fred and Karen—his wife of 60 years—are regulars at HCCM. Whatever needs doing, they do it. Fred’s face lights up when he talks about all the HCCM programs available to the community he loves. “We have a thrift store, food pantry and fresh food programs. We give out school supplies, diapers, and of course we give out fans with the Summer Fan Drive.” Fred reflects, “we keep growing which means more people need help.” Kandy agrees. Last year, HCCM reached 30,000 families, a 45% jump from the previous year!

After nearly 40 years of volunteering, Fred is not slowing down. He’s got a tight schedule to keep. The food pantry needs him in 30 minutes. Before he leaves, he makes sure we know one crucial fact:

“I get way more out of it than I put into it.”