A Life Built on Service
If there’s one thing I’ve learned through the years, it’s that real purpose comes from serving others. I’ve been blessed to run two successful businesses—Honeycutt Transmission and The Holiday Light Store—but the work that’s had the deepest impact on me didn’t come with a paycheck. It came from getting my hands dirty, showing up for people in need, and being part of something bigger than myself. Volunteerism, both close to home and around the world, has shaped who I am.
Where It All Started
My journey of service began over 30 years ago when I joined the North Carolina Baptist Men’s Association. At the time, I just wanted to help out. I never imagined it would take me across the country—and even the world—serving people who had lost everything. I’ve been fortunate enough to visit 20 states and 6 different countries, not for vacation, but for mission trips, disaster relief, and building homes and churches for folks who needed them.
Each trip was a reminder that people everywhere—no matter their background—need love, support, and a little bit of hope. And when we show up, we’re not just giving them tools or food or a roof over their heads. We’re showing them that they’re not alone.
Disaster Relief: A Calling I Couldn’t Ignore
Some of the hardest but most rewarding work I’ve done has been in disaster zones. I’ll never forget what I saw in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. Homes gone, families separated, neighborhoods destroyed. But in the middle of all that heartbreak, there was also strength—people coming together, neighbors helping neighbors, volunteers working around the clock to bring back a sense of normal.
In April 2011, tornadoes tore through Wake County, and I found myself right in the middle of the recovery efforts. We completed more than 800 chainsaw jobs and helped rebuild over 400 homes. That kind of work takes grit, teamwork, and most of all, heart. But seeing families move back into their homes made every sore muscle and long day worth it.
Serving in Our Own Backyard
While I’ve traveled far for service, some of the most meaningful work happens right here at home. As part of the Raleigh Baptist Association and now the Sandy Creek Baptist Association, I’ve had the chance to lead local projects, mentor young volunteers, and help coordinate recovery operations in our region. Whether we’re repairing roofs or cooking meals for displaced families, there’s a special kind of fulfillment that comes from helping your own community.
Our annual Christmas light display at my farm is another way I try to give back. It might not seem like traditional volunteer work, but I see it as a way to lift spirits, bring families together, and raise money for local charities. Thousands of people come every year, and it’s become something families look forward to. Bringing people joy is its own form of service.
The Power of Showing Up
One thing I’ve learned about volunteer work is that you don’t need special skills or a fancy degree—you just need to show up. Whether you’re swinging a hammer, handing out bottled water, or simply listening to someone’s story, your presence matters. People remember who was there for them during the hardest times.
I’ve had the privilege of working with volunteers from all walks of life—young and old, skilled and unskilled, rich and poor. And every one of them brought something to the table. That’s the beauty of volunteerism: it brings people together with a common goal and breaks down barriers that might otherwise divide us.
Making It a Family Mission
My wife Cindy and I have been married for 34 years, and she’s been right beside me in many of these efforts. Our daughters and now our grandchildren have seen firsthand what it means to give back. I believe service is something that should be passed down through generations. When kids grow up seeing their parents and grandparents help others, it becomes part of who they are.
We’ve worked hard to teach our family that life isn’t just about what you get—it’s about what you give. Whether it’s helping a neighbor, donating time to a local church project, or serving meals to families in crisis, every act of service matters.
Why It All Matters
In a world that often feels divided and chaotic, volunteerism brings out the best in us. It reminds us of our shared humanity. It’s not always easy work, and it often goes unnoticed. But it’s the kind of work that leaves a lasting impact.
Through the years, I’ve learned that true success isn’t just measured by business profits or awards—it’s measured by the lives you touch. And I can say with full confidence that the most meaningful moments of my life came when I was serving others.
So if you’re wondering how you can make a difference, I’d say this: look around you. Someone always needs help. It doesn’t take much to make someone’s day a little brighter. And when we all pitch in, our communities—both near and far—become stronger, more hopeful places.
Serving with purpose has changed my life. And I believe it can change yours too.