Staff

Lumber River United Way is pleased to announce Paul Braun, formerly of Friendship NY, and Johnson County, NC has been selected as the as Executive Director of Lumber River United Way.  Having started his position this summer, Pamela Wright, Board President states, “Paul has already proved to a strong advocate for families, community and building relationships in Robeson, Bladen and Hoke Counties.  Paul,  a dedicated educator and community advocate, has spent over 16 years making a profound impact on the lives of others through his work as a 3rd-grade teacher and Career and Technical Education teacher, and Grant Writer at Friendship Central School in Friendship, NY, where he worked to make a difference every day by fostering an environment of learning and growth. With dual Master of Science degrees in Students with Disabilities and Differentiated Instruction, he was committed to ensuring that all students, regardless of their challenges, could thrive academically.

In addition to his career in education, Paul is a passionate advocate for families overcoming life’s barriers. On joining Lumber River United Way he says, “My goal is to help families break through the obstacles that prevent them from succeeding.” His belief in the power of community and personal effort to create change echoes his favorite quote from anthropologist Margaret Mead: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.”

Outside of his professional life, Paul leads a fulfilling and family-centered life. Now residing in Lumber Bridge, NC, Paul and Peggy, his wife of 30 years, are the proud parents of two sons and one daughter. The Braun family is also blessed with three granddaughters. Paul enjoys spending time in his workshop where he creates handcrafted wood products.

An avid cook, baker, and smoker of meats, Paul is known for bringing his love of food and family to every gathering. He enjoys fishing, living the country lifestyle, and spending quality time with his dog, Daisy.

Paul’s lifelong dedication to his students, family, and community showcases his unwavering commitment to creating positive change. In his role as executive director of Lumber River United Way Paul remains focused on his core mission: to make a lasting difference in the lives of those around him.