A Reflection On Founder’s Day

By Betty Burris
Executive Director, Paul Anderson Youth Home

“If I, Paul Anderson, the World’s Strongest Man, cannot make it through one day without Jesus Christ, how can you?” -Paul Anderson

In 1961, God called two young newlyweds, Paul and Glenda Anderson, to a mission far greater than themselves: to create a loving, Christ-centered home for young men who might otherwise face incarceration. Rather than pursuing a life of fame and fortune, they embraced a higher calling—establishing a refuge where young men could find structure, guidance, and the opportunity to become givers rather than takers. Their vision extended beyond the present moment. They sought to shape future husbands, fathers, and leaders, leaving a lasting impact on generations to come.

Throughout the challenges of building this Kingdom ministry, Paul and Glenda remained steadfast in their faith. They carried the mindset of the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 11:1, “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.” Despite Paul’s God-given gift of strength, neither he nor Glenda ever wavered from pointing young men to Jesus. For 64 years, that commitment has endured, anchored in the belief that “if Jesus Christ is lifted up, He will draw all men to Himself” (John 12:32).

From the early days when Paul traveled across the United States, using his strength to inspire and raise support, to Glenda’s tireless work overseeing the daily operations of the Home, their partnership was a living testimony to faith and perseverance.

God’s provision has been evident time and again through the support of devoted partners. From the very beginning, when John Murray, founder of Murray Biscuit Company, volunteered to raise the down payment for the property on the present location of our campus. There was Gerry Achenbach, (former president and chairman of Piggly Wiggly Southern Group), who became our third co-founder. We are also thankful for George Jenkins (founder of Publix Super Markets) and S. Truett Cathy, (founder of Chick-fil-A), who made the first contribution to The PAYH. Each step along the way has been marked by God’s hand and the generosity of countless others who have joined in this mission.

As I reflect on this year’s Founders’ Day, I am reminded of the personal impact Paul and Glenda have had on my own journey—as a wife, mother, and Christian. Their example continues to inspire me, and I am fully convinced that our Heavenly Father will continue to offer a second chance to troubled young men for many years to come.

As we celebrate 64 years of ministry, having offered help to more than 1,400 young men and their families as they seek to find hope and transformation, our mission remains the same: to point struggling young men to Jesus Christ. With unwavering passion and dedication, we will continue to see lives changed through the power of the Gospel.

Strength For The Day

Each week, PAYH shares a devotional; “Strength For The Day,” by Chaplain (Col) Stephen W. Leonard, USA, Ret. In addition to being a retired US Army Chaplain, he is also the husband of our Co-Founder, Glenda Anderson Leonard. His writing is both moving and inspiring and will most certainly lift your spirit and encourage you in your walk with Jesus. To receive his weekly writing, you can subscribe online at payh.org. You can also read past writings by clicking here.

Thank You, Chap Shuman

We are so grateful to Chap Shuman for coming out to share dinner with the boys and pour into their lives. Moments like these remind us how powerful it is when our young men are surrounded by mentors who care, encourage, and inspire them. Chap is the son of Mark Shuman and Victoria Constantine Shuman, PAYH’s Advancement Officer. Thank you, Chap, for investing your time and heart into the next generation!

The Cleanup Continues…

It is hard to believe we are coming up on the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene. The impact of the storm is still felt in our community, but the boys are consistently working every day to continue the cleanup efforts.

With the guidance and leadership of Mr. Eddie and our hard-working mentors, the guys are staying organized and focused as they carry out their ongoing plan to restore and rebuild.

We are grateful for their dedication and for the example of teamwork and perseverance they are setting for all of us.

Happy Heavenly Birthday

On October 17th, we honor the life and legacy of Paul Anderson on his 93rd birthday (1932-1994). Together with his wife, Glenda, they co-founded the Paul Anderson Youth Home in 1961—a Kingdom ministry that has touched countless lives and continues to impact young men and their families to this day. Their vision of faith, strength, and hope lives on in every changed life.