This past week I had the opportunity to interview one of our Fresh Food For All (FFFA) site leaders, Cliff Wells. Cliff was born in California where he spent the first 22 years of his life and then moved to Texas to join the United States Airforce. After his service ended, he began his professional career, with 3M where he was very successful in the manufacturing department. He began to move within the company and ended up overseeing and managing three factories for them. Cliff also has a big heart for his church which he has been a part of for 35 years. While he was working with 3M, he also held a part-time position at the church as an administrator. Overseeing maintenance of the facility, personnel decisions, and various building programs. He now is the chair of the missions committee which he’s held for five years now. During that time, they took a trip to Kenya and spent a couple of weeks helping the locals build schools. He said it was very fulfilling work and really made him appreciate what he has over in the US. One thing that really stuck with Cliff while in Africa was that no matter what, the people were always happy and singing.
When it comes to his involvement with HCCM, he has been helping us out in every way possible. He started out as a case manager in 2005 and ended up helping in the pantry, bringing in donations, and keeping us organized. Since 2017 Cliff has been involved in our FFFA program. One of his favorite parts about serving is the people he gets to serve with. He believes that he has a great team, and they all work well together. Another aspect of this mission that he loves is seeing all the different people that attend the distribution. “They are all from different backgrounds and always grateful for what they get”. One thing that always amazes him is the amount of need there is out there. He went on to explain that they may not be starving but the food they receive does mean a lot and can go a long way.
During our conversation, Cliff was able to give me some of his “keys to life” so to speak. The first thing he told me is that you need to “plan your work and work your plan”. Meaning get organized, create a process and follow through/execute that process. He also lives by the cub scout and boy scout mottos, which are “do your best” and “be prepared” which is a good reminder for everyday life. The biggest lesson in his life is to follow Jesus and his teachings and that will lead to a satisfied and fulfilled life. The last bit of wisdom he left me with is to all of us, especially the younger generation, is to be true to yourself and true to others. No need to try and be something that you’re not. To be “mindful” of your surroundings and think things through before you act.
When Cliff isn’t busy trying to save the world, he loves to fish and garden. His favorite spots are in Minnesota, where he and his family enjoy catching the likes of Walleyed Pike, Northern Pike, and Smallmouth Bass. Currently, he is growing roses and other beautiful flowers in his flower bed.
There you have it… Clifford Wells is an amazing member of our community and an important partner to the HCCM family. He has experienced so much and has even more to give. Next time you see Cliff dropping off some canned goods at our dock go out and say, “hi”. I’m sure he would appreciate it and you won’t regret it. So, from me to you Cliff, thank you for all you do.
