Every Thursday morning, you can find Leming Xu in the Central Texas Food Bank (CTFB) warehouse, carefully sorting, inspecting, cleaning and boxing food that will soon help nourish families across Central Texas.
For years, he has shown up with quiet consistency and a deep commitment to helping others — through changing seasons, major organizational growth and even throughout the COVID-19 pandemic without taking a break. As of spring 2026, Leming has contributed more than 1,600 volunteer hours to CTFB, becoming someone our team can always count on.
But Leming’s story is about far more than hours served. It’s a story of resilience, healing and finding purpose through community.
Leming first began volunteering in 2004, when CTFB was still known as the Capital Area Food Bank and operated out of the old South Congress facility. After building a career in the tech industry, his life changed dramatically when he suffered a traumatic brain injury.
“I survived from the traumatic brain injury and I’ve been lucky. [I’m] still alive,” Leming shared.
As he worked through recovery, a rehabilitation organization suggested volunteering as a way to rebuild his focus and confidence. He decided to give the food bank a try.
What began as a recovery step soon became something much more meaningful.
The volunteer assignments in the warehouse helped him regain skills by allowing him to focus on one task at a time. Over time, volunteering became a source of healing and encouragement. He shared that he never thought he’d be fully able to do the things he does today. The food bank offered healing for the soul and brain.
For Leming, volunteering also became a way to reconnect with purpose.
“I just thought I should do something to contribute to society,” he said. “Whatever I can do, I will just continue.”
Week after week, his dedication has never wavered. Leming consistently goes above and beyond for both staff and fellow volunteers. He has even brought friends along to volunteer beside him, sharing his passion for giving back with others in the community.
“I try to do as much as I can for this organization,” he said. “I like the food bank.”
Leming says one of the reasons he continues returning every Thursday is the people.
“It’s very nice of people here and try to help the society,” he shared.
His generosity, perseverance, and compassion have left a lasting mark on the CTFB team. Volunteers like Leming remind us that CTFB is more than a place where food is distributed — it’s a place where connection, purpose and hope can grow.
“Whatever you do, that’s good for the society,” Leming said. “I’m happy to do it.”
We are deeply grateful for Leming and the thousands of volunteers who help make tomorrow possible for families across Central Texas.
Ready to join Leming in volunteering? Click here to learn about opportunities and to register.
