Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Paul Hyde is a man whose life has been marked by a deep commitment to work, community service and disaster preparedness. From his early days working at Ford Motor Co. at the age of 13 to his significant role in the Hummer Owners Preparedness for Emergencies (H.O.P.E) program, Hyde’s journey is one of resilience, dedication and a strong sense of duty to both his family and community.
Growing up as one of nine siblings, Hyde learned the value of hard work and community support from a young age. His first job at Ford Motor Co. at the age of 13 laid the foundation for a strong work ethic that would carry him through various phases of his life. After graduating high school, Hyde joined the army and was stationed in Europe, far from his family in Detroit. Unfortunately, while abroad, Hyde’s father passed away, leaving behind his high school-aged siblings.
During this challenging time, the Red Cross played a crucial role in helping Hyde return home through its Service to the Armed Forces program. The support from the Red Cross left a lasting impression on him, fostering a sense of gratitude and a desire to give back to the community that had helped him in his time of need.
In 2007, Paul’s career took a new turn when his employer, AM General, a manufacturer of army vehicles, partnered with the Red Cross in Washington D.C., to launch the H.O.P.E program. This initiative aimed to prepare civilian car owners for emergencies, enabling them to transport people, goods and services during disasters. Hyde played a pivotal role in training these individuals in disaster preparedness, leveraging his expertise in automotive technology.
While working in Indiana, Hyde pursued higher education, earning an Associate of Applied Science degree in Advanced Automotive Technology from IVY Tech Community College. This educational background further enriched his skill set, allowing him to contribute more effectively to his community.
In 2016, Paul, along with his wife and sister-in-law, moved to Colorado. Beyond his family, Paul’s driving force is his unwavering work ethic and commitment to serving the community. Upon retirement, he continued his commitment to community service by joining the Red Cross of Northern Colorado. Currently serving as the Volunteer Disaster Program Manager.
Hyde is one of three leaders overseeing the chapter’s readiness for any disaster. His responsibilities include managing daily activities and organizing volunteer disaster training at the chapter level. In the last two years, the teams he oversees have been deployed on two separate occasions, showcasing the tangible impact of his leadership. His story serves as an inspiration for others, emphasizing the importance of dedication, resilience and the power of community service.
Hyde’s journey from Detroit to Colorado is a testament to the transformative power of hard work, community support and a deep sense of duty. Whether serving in the military, contributing to disaster preparedness programs or leading volunteer efforts in Colorado, Paul’s legacy reflects a lifetime dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of oth
Every March, the American Red Cross of Colorado and Wyoming celebrates local heroes at the American Red Cross Rocky Mountain Heroes Soirée. This year, we are pleased to recognize, Paul Hyde as a community champion who exemplifies service in his Northern Colorado community.
This Community Champion Award is sponsored by Liberty Energy. Thank you for your support of the American Red Cross.
