Pastor Paul Bains is a second-generation peninsula resident & community organizer who is deeply rooted in all aspects of the local community including the non-profit, for-profit, government, law enforcement (Chaplaincy Program), & faith-based sectors. Through his work at WeHOPE and throughout the Bay Area, Pastor Bains is fulfilling his lifelong commitment of helping the most marginalized individuals and families achieve self-sufficiency and create a more promising future.
Since WeHOPE’s inception in 1999, Pastor Bains and the organization have responded to the unique needs of East Palo Alto (EPA) and its neighboring cities by supporting homeless and marginalized populations through cohesive services catered to the specific demands of the individual client’s situation. As the community grows and changes, Pastor Bains and WeHOPE stand ready to address the challenges that come with change through innovative solutions and compassionate responses. For Instance:
As a widely recognized community activist and advocate for social justice, Pastor Bains is a sought after and celebrated speaker. His talks provide individuals and companies with a safe place to have courageous conversations about race and equity and our responsibility to create the positive change we desire in the world.
Pastor Bains’ commitment to serving the community extends beyond his work with WeHOPE. He is a police chaplain for the East Palo Alto, Palo Alto, and Menlo Park Police Departments, serves as the Pastor for Saint Samuel Church, sits on numerous Boards including, City Team, Able Works, Peninsula Healthcare and Second Harvest Food Bank.
Pastor Bains has three beautiful and talented daughters with his wife of 28 years, Cheryl Bains. In his spare time he can be found cheering the Warriors and Raiders on to victory, spending time with his family at the movies, or preparing his famous lamb or ribs on the grill for friends to enjoy.
