How One Man’s Family Story Inspires Support for Speech and Hearing Nonprofit
“I was looking for something that genuinely resonated with me,” said Paul Malone - words that, in hindsight, proved more meaningful than he initially realized.
Three years ago, while serving as a Consumer Banking Manager at Regions Bank, Malone was searching for a way to give back to his community. That search led him to tour a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals with speech and hearing challenges.
“My mother has been deaf for as long as I can remember. I’ve always hoped there would be more resources available for people like her,” he shared.
Marilyn Malone lost her hearing unexpectedly 45 years ago while working at a large retail store, taking a phone order. The resulting nerve damage forced her to leave a job she loved—one that required the ability to hear.
“She had to reinvent her career path,” Paul said while adding, “She ended up working various jobs where hearing wasn’t essential.”
Determined to remain active in the workforce in her early 40s, Marilyn enrolled in cosmetology school and earned her license. Over time, she developed strong lipreading skills to navigate the challenges her hearing loss presented.
“She adapted remarkably well to a very sudden life change,” noted Paul.
What Paul didn’t realize at the time of his tour was that the West Tennessee Hearing and Speech Center (WTHSC) in Jackson—where he hoped to make a difference—had once played a pivotal role in his own family’s life. Around the same time Marilyn switched careers, WTHSC provided her with her very first hearing aid, helping her perceive sounds again and easing her reliance on lipreading.
“This is my opportunity to share our family’s story and why this mission is so personal to us,” Paul said. “When I told her I’d be talking about it, she lit up. It truly meant the world to her.”
Today, as a member of WTHSC’s board, Malone witnesses firsthand the life-changing work the center does for more than 1,500 people each year. One of its signature programs is the annual Language Camp, a free summer event that offers a welcoming, interactive space for children experiencing speech delays, hearing disorders, or communication difficulties.
Several of Malone’s colleagues from Regions Bank have also joined in to support the camp.
“Our branch managers have volunteered, and it's been a really fulfilling experience for them,” he said.
Throughout the year, the center also helps families across 21 counties access treatment and communication tools—including hearing aids—through its “Everyone’s Voice Should Be Heard” grant program.
The impact of that mission hits close to home for Malone.
“People dealing with speech and language issues often feel isolated,” he said. “Everyone wants to feel included and capable. Seeing the relief and hope in a parent’s eyes when their child starts receiving the help they need—it’s heartwarming. There’s so much joy in that building. It lifts your spirits.”
These powerful experiences continue to fuel Malone’s passion for service.
“Paul exemplifies what a board member should be—committed, enthusiastic, and insightful,” said Rachel Maxwell, Marketing and Fundraising Coordinator at WTHSC. “He’s instrumental not only in guiding our financial planning but also in spreading awareness about the services we provide. He’s always ready to roll up his sleeves for the community.”
According to Malone, every board member brings their own meaningful connection to the table.
“Each of us has a story, a personal reason for being involved,” he explained. “It’s more than just attending meetings or casting votes. Serving on this board means getting actively involved in making a difference.”
Malone also expressed deep appreciation for the dedication of WTHSC’s staff.
“Our team is filled with people who truly care,” he said. “This isn’t a job you take unless your heart’s in the right place. That’s what drew me to this organization. I just wanted someone to care for my mother the way they care for others. That’s what continues to inspire me.”
Three years ago, while serving as a Consumer Banking Manager at Regions Bank, Malone was searching for a way to give back to his community. That search led him to tour a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals with speech and hearing challenges.
“My mother has been deaf for as long as I can remember. I’ve always hoped there would be more resources available for people like her,” he shared.
Marilyn Malone lost her hearing unexpectedly 45 years ago while working at a large retail store, taking a phone order. The resulting nerve damage forced her to leave a job she loved—one that required the ability to hear.
“She had to reinvent her career path,” Paul said while adding, “She ended up working various jobs where hearing wasn’t essential.”
Determined to remain active in the workforce in her early 40s, Marilyn enrolled in cosmetology school and earned her license. Over time, she developed strong lipreading skills to navigate the challenges her hearing loss presented.
“She adapted remarkably well to a very sudden life change,” noted Paul.
What Paul didn’t realize at the time of his tour was that the West Tennessee Hearing and Speech Center (WTHSC) in Jackson—where he hoped to make a difference—had once played a pivotal role in his own family’s life. Around the same time Marilyn switched careers, WTHSC provided her with her very first hearing aid, helping her perceive sounds again and easing her reliance on lipreading.
“This is my opportunity to share our family’s story and why this mission is so personal to us,” Paul said. “When I told her I’d be talking about it, she lit up. It truly meant the world to her.”
Today, as a member of WTHSC’s board, Malone witnesses firsthand the life-changing work the center does for more than 1,500 people each year. One of its signature programs is the annual Language Camp, a free summer event that offers a welcoming, interactive space for children experiencing speech delays, hearing disorders, or communication difficulties.
Several of Malone’s colleagues from Regions Bank have also joined in to support the camp.
“Our branch managers have volunteered, and it's been a really fulfilling experience for them,” he said.
Throughout the year, the center also helps families across 21 counties access treatment and communication tools—including hearing aids—through its “Everyone’s Voice Should Be Heard” grant program.
The impact of that mission hits close to home for Malone.
“People dealing with speech and language issues often feel isolated,” he said. “Everyone wants to feel included and capable. Seeing the relief and hope in a parent’s eyes when their child starts receiving the help they need—it’s heartwarming. There’s so much joy in that building. It lifts your spirits.”
These powerful experiences continue to fuel Malone’s passion for service.
“Paul exemplifies what a board member should be—committed, enthusiastic, and insightful,” said Rachel Maxwell, Marketing and Fundraising Coordinator at WTHSC. “He’s instrumental not only in guiding our financial planning but also in spreading awareness about the services we provide. He’s always ready to roll up his sleeves for the community.”
According to Malone, every board member brings their own meaningful connection to the table.
“Each of us has a story, a personal reason for being involved,” he explained. “It’s more than just attending meetings or casting votes. Serving on this board means getting actively involved in making a difference.”
Malone also expressed deep appreciation for the dedication of WTHSC’s staff.
“Our team is filled with people who truly care,” he said. “This isn’t a job you take unless your heart’s in the right place. That’s what drew me to this organization. I just wanted someone to care for my mother the way they care for others. That’s what continues to inspire me.”
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