Natick Resident Named Greater Boston Food Bank's Volunteer Of The Year

BOSTON, MA — A Natick local has been recognized for his major contribution to The Greater Boston Food Bank.

On June 12, the GBFB, the largest hunger-relief organization in New England, honored the individuals and organizations that demonstrated extraordinary leadership in supporting GBFB’s hunger-relief efforts throughout 2024 at its new GBFB Awards event, held at GBFB’s Yawkey Distribution Center in Boston.

Awardees represent those who partnered with GBFB to advance its mission to end hunger here through food donations, volunteerism, advocacy, philanthropic support and agency partnerships, officials said.

As a part of this year’s celebration, GBFB honored Paul Waber with the Volunteer of the Year Award, which recognizes an individual or company that has made a significant impact on the Food Bank through dedicated and loyal volunteering.

A retired math teacher and Natick resident, Paul has been volunteering since 2018 and has contributed over 430 hours of service, officials said.

Known for his positivity, flexibility and strong sense of teamwork, Paul is a trusted member of GBFB’s volunteer community. He frequently helps train new volunteers and readily adapts to new tasks.

“It was totally unexpected that I received recognition for doing something that I think everyone should be doing,” said Waber. “I believe that it is important to give back to the community and I can't think of a better way than to help provide food for those in need by volunteering at GBFB. I want to thank the staff at GBFB for this honor, and I won't rest on my laurels.”

Formerly known as the Partner Appreciation Awards, the event marked the evolution of a two-decade tradition that started in 2003, which now reflects the broader, cross-sector efforts fueling hunger relief across Eastern Massachusetts, officials said.

The event spotlighted six individuals and organizations selected from GBFB’s network of food distribution partners, volunteers, public officials, donors and advocates who have shown dedication to mitigating the food insecurity crisis and providing wide-ranging contributions to support hunger relief efforts in Eastern Massachusetts.