GLHS Grad Champions GRIN Volunteer Efforts

Paul Michael Embry, a Class of 2024 Gahanna Lincoln High School graduate, has spent his last two summers at Royal Manor Elementary making a difference, one lunch at a time. 

Embry, who attended Lincoln Elementary and Middle School South during his time in Gahanna-Jefferson Public Schools, has spent countless hours volunteering with Gahanna Residents in Need (GRIN), so it just made sense for him to be selected as the site manager for the free summer lunch program at Royal Manor. 

“Paul Michael has grown up at GRIN as he has been volunteering for years. He is a joy to work with and represents GRIN with integrity and a smiling face,” Beth Bentley, GRIN Program Director said. “We selected Paul Michael due to his professionalism and dedication to GRIN as well as his ability to successfully and accurately do the job. He is always willing to go the extra mile and we can't wait to see what the future holds for him.”

The free summer lunch program provides approximately 115 meals daily at no charge. As site manager, Embry is responsible for organizing the food, setting the volunteers up for success and serving as the first face families see when they arrive. 

“I always talk to the clients who come in and ask them how they are doing. One question can make someone's whole day,” Embry said. “So many people do not take that time. You never know what someone is going through, so I always try to provide positivity throughout the community. I try to ask questions with a smile and a positive attitude.”

In addition to the free summer lunch program, Embry is active in his community, working for Gahanna Parks and Rec. While a student at GLHS, he was involved in National Honor Society, chorale and the Global Scholars program, where his project centered around how people with disabilities deserve equal footing in the workforce.

This fall, Embry will continue his educational career at The Ohio State University to study radiologic sciences and therapy, with the goal to go on to medical school and become a physician. It is clear that no matter where life takes him, Embry will always be involved in bettering his community. 

“Volunteering is important, not because you have to, but because you want to make a difference,” he said. “I think GRIN has established so many opportunities and connections for me. It is important because I feel like I have made a difference in my community. It is something I’m extremely proud of.”