For GraceWorks, Williamson County’s largest food bank, the needs of local individuals and families is never ending. Over the years, local grocery store manager Joe Zarcone has been an indispensable tool in helping GraceWorks fulfill these needs for thousands of locals.
Working behind the scenes to respond to needs within the community from GraceWorks and numerous other non-profits, Joe has not only utilized his position as store manager to meet those needs whenever possible, he has often worked hands on to help fulfill these needs personally.
“Joe Zarcone is one of the finest men I have ever met, and I am far from being alone in this sentiment,” shared Susan Reagan, Operations Director for GraceWorks, in her nomination of Zarcone. “Joe touches the lives of many through his job as a Publix store manager. He is an excellent model of being a Servant Leader. Nothing is too much for him, nor beneath him. Joe has been invaluable to my efforts in sustaining the food pantry at GraceWorks.”
“The food pantry is just one way GraceWorks helps struggling families in Williamson County, and we are the largest food pantry in this county. As a nonprofit, we survive solely by donations from the community. Publix remains our number one donor. Joe has taken a leadership role in this effort. He acts as a liaison with all the local Publix stores and the corporate office and keeps us informed.”
“At the last holiday donation from Publix, Joe saw to it that the food was delivered to us directly from the corporate office and he and a crew of workers from the Royal Oaks Publix came over with smiles and pallet jacks and moved all the food off the semi-truck and into our warehouse while I stood there amazed. In the past, this was a multiple hour, hands on event involving a large group. When there is reason for me to mention this story to friends and acquaintances outside of GraceWorks, inevitably someone in the group will have a similar “Joe’s the Best” kind of story. This consistency in Joe’s character and the delight he brings to those who know him, is what makes him a true Hometown hero.”
“We are blessed to live in such a great County and one of the big reasons it is so great is because of the services GraceWorks provides,” shared Joe. I am happy to help GraceWorks in fulfilling its mission in any way possible. I am lucky to work for a Company that sees the value in helping and has a legacy of giving back to the communities we serve.”
Joe has been a store manager for Publix, a company known for it’s community support and generosity, for 22 years. George Jenkins, the founder of Publix, famously once said when asked what he would be worth today if he hadn’t given so much away- “Probably nothing.”
“Joe has the heart of a servant,” shared local resident Larry Holmes. “For the last 20 years Joe has been both a good friend and wonderful supporter of numerous fundraisers I’ve been involved in. No matter what the request, he always says yes and comes through in ways that are better than asked. He’s an unassuming guy who just keeps on giving; to his family, friends and the community. You just have to love the guy.”
As a part of Joe’s DWA Hometown Hero award a $500 donation will be made to GraceWorks in his honor.
Darrell Waltrip Automotive’s Hometown Heroes is a monthly event honoring local heroes making a difference. To learn more or to nominate your hero visit www.DarrellWaltrip.com/hero.
