For 20 years, Paul Maas has been a steadfast presence at the California Association of Food Banks (CAFB). His journey with the organization is a testament to his dedication, adaptability, and passion for the fight against hunger. From the early days when CAFB was just a small team in a tiny office in Sacramento to its evolution into a statewide anti-hunger leader, Paul has been with us every step of the way.
If you have the pleasure of working with Paul, then you know that he’s an advocate for finding solutions, continuous improvements, common sense, and doing the right thing. And you also know that he’s genuinely friendly and a great thought partner. But Paul isn’t one to toot his own horn, so you may not know that he figured out how to make two complex federal reimbursement programs accessible to small nonprofits in California. Or that in his first few years at CAFB he developed tools that nonprofits throughout the state still use today to help fund their CalFresh outreach and nutrition education programs. For so many years, Paul has been the backbone of our Programs department. His efforts drive the rest of our work, both within our team at CAFB and in communities across California where partners are helping neighbors access CalFresh. Paul’s work may not always be visible, but it has far-reaching impact. Congratulations on 20 years at CAFB, Paul, and thank you. Here’s to the next 20!
Originally from Kalamazoo, Michigan, Paul moved to California in his 20s. Paul was hired as CAFB’s fourth employee. At the time they were working out of a small Sacramento office near the Capitol. His initial role was finance manager, mostly focused on bookkeeping. “It was all hands on deck,” Paul recalls. “We were just four people, working out of a tiny office. I never imagined we’d grow into what we are today.” In those early days, programs like Farm to Family and events like Capitol Action Day were just beginning. Paul remembers the first Capitol Action Days vividly: food bankers walking door-to-door in the Capitol, armed with photocopied materials and big ideas. Over time, those grassroots efforts transformed into a sophisticated policy program that now establishes CAFB as a leader in the anti-hunger community.
Building a Legacy: Paul’s Evolving Role & Impact
As CAFB grew, so did Paul’s responsibilities. He found his niche, transitioning from bookkeeping to managing the CalFresh outreach program. Over the years, he has helped guide this program from a pilot with six food banks to a statewide network of food banks and community organizations helping thousands of Californians access vital food assistance. Paul explains, “It’s a lot of administrative work, but it’s deeply fulfilling knowing that what we’re doing is helping real people.”
Paul’s contributions, though often behind the scenes, are integral to CAFB’s mission. He sees his work as part of a larger effort, describing himself as one of the many gears that keep the machine running. “Even if you’re just one cog in the overall machine, the machine doesn’t work without you,” he says.
Paul’s two decades with CAFB have paralleled his personal life in profound ways. During his tenure, he has gotten married, bought a house, and raised children—all while contributing to CAFB’s mission.
“The stability and support I’ve received from CAFB have allowed me to live the life I have today,” Paul reflects. “I’ve been able to find a balance between work and family, and that’s something I don’t take for granted.” Paul’s Midwest roots influence his approach to work. While many people jump from job to job, Paul has stayed with CAFB because of his belief in our mission and his desire to see the organization grow. “It feels like a family member I’ve watched grow up,” he says. “I feel a deep responsibility for the programs I’ve nurtured, and I’m proud of what we’ve built together.”
When asked what advice he would give to someone just starting at CAFB, Paul emphasizes the importance of understanding the mission behind the work.
“Work isn’t always easy, but when you know it’s making a real impact, it feels worthwhile,” he says. “Think about the lives you’re touching and let that drive you.”
Outside of work, Paul is a drummer and skier, balancing his passion for music and the outdoors with his professional life. But it’s his dedication to CAFB’s mission that truly drives him.
“Watching CAFB evolve over the years has been incredible,” he says. “From a tiny office in Sacramento to a statewide leader in the fight against hunger—it’s been a privilege to be part of this journey.”
Paul’s 20 years of service are a reminder of the power of commitment and belief in a greater cause. His work has been instrumental in shaping CAFB into the organization it is today, and his legacy is one of resilience, growth, and impact. Thank you, Paul, for your dedication to CAFB and your unwavering commitment to ending hunger in California.
随时与饥饿作斗争。
