A Moment That Captures the Heart of Helping Hand
The very first day of the Helping Hand Radio Auction reminded us exactly why this event means so much to Henry County.
During opening day at the Paris Convention Center, a simple donated item became something far more meaningful. A broom donated by the Paris Lions Club in memory of longtime volunteer and board member Kevin Buie sparked a heartfelt bidding moment that stopped everyone in their tracks.
Kevin was deeply woven into the Helping Hand story. He served on the board, volunteered faithfully, led as a past president of the Lions Club, and was an active member of the Paris Photography Club. His legacy of service and generosity is one that continues to shape this auction year after year.
As bidding unfolded, representatives from the Lions Club and the Photography Club found themselves in a friendly but emotional back and forth, each wanting to honor Kevin in their own way. In a beautiful show of unity, the two groups chose not to compete, but instead came together, pooling their resources to purchase the broom for $1,000 in Kevin’s memory.
It was a moment that perfectly captured what Helping Hand is all about. Community over competition. Generosity over recognition. People coming together to support one another and the causes that matter most.
By the end of the first day, the Lions Club and Lakeway Kiwanis had donated 17 slates of items, helping the auction raise $6,324 on day one alone. More importantly, they helped set the tone for the weeks ahead.
Helping Hand is powered by moments just like this. Moments of kindness, remembrance, collaboration, and deep local pride. As the auction continues, stories like Kevin Buie’s remind us that this isn’t just about raising funds. It’s about honoring lives, strengthening relationships, and serving our neighbors together.
Story inspired by reporting from the Paris Post-Intelligencer.
