When Lois Paul moved to Denver from Philadelphia to heal after her previous marriage ended, she didn’t know a soul or what she might do. Lois did know she wanted to give of herself to others, and she found that the people in Denver were very friendly and warm, and they welcomed her with open arms. Lois says: “All of the acceptance and encouragement I received helped me come out of the tunnel I was in at that time and brought me out to the other side.”
Now living the life she’s always dreamed of, no “girl loves having fun” more than Lois Paul; but when it comes to getting serious, Lois’s passion for Excelsior Youth Center is what drives and fulfills her these days. Lois who is the Vice-Chair for the Excelsior Youth Center’s Foundation Board, says: “For many of the at-risk girls at Excelsior, this is their last resort. Excelsior has an 84% success rate of sending these girls back out in the world to lead happy and successful lives. “
Known as the luminous and lovely Lois Paul - or Lolo or Lowie - to her friends, she is a warm and comforting figure to be around. Lois adores living in Colorado and couldn’t imagine being anywhere else. She loves to hike outdoors in the warm weather and takes Yoga and Boot Camp classes during the week to stay in such great shape.
With her strong vision and commitment to helping young people find their way, this lady keeps moving forward and looking straight ahead. Lois says: “I wish I knew then what I know now. I have to hurry up because there is so much more I want to accomplish!”
On February 24, 2012, Lois co-chairs the Excelsior Youth’s Triumphant Woman event honoring community leader and “Have You Met” Jamie Angelich – and featuring a performance by Lyle Lovett. Lois has a great sense of style and a unique flair all her own. And with her ability to stay on course and work towards her admirable goals, Lois Paul is a triumphant woman in her own right.
You’re known as a results-oriented person; what is your philosophy on achieving results?
Well, I don't know about that - LOL - but I feel that you have to have a passion for what you are doing. If you do then you just put your head down and keep moving forward. As anyone knows who works hard for a non-profit cause, it does get frustrating at times because there are "no’s" and there are so many great causes out there worth supporting and you can only ask your friends so many times.
We all have an obsession of some sorts, what are you obsessed with (shoes, purses, exercising)?
Another LOL moment. I do work out and watch what I eat. My husband says I'm such a girly girl and yes shoes and purses are included in the mix along with costume jewelry.
What’s the best advice someone ever gave you?
“If what you're doing isn't working, do something else and if that isn't working do anything else.”
You stay so busy and have so much going on, do you ever get bored?
Not bored, just need more nap time. :)
What do you like to do with your leisure time? Do you find time for hobbies or a favorite sport? I like to vacation at warm locations at a beach, love the mountains in the summer. I used to bike a lot but haven't much after I broke my foot. I don't have an excuse however I need to start up again. Love to go out to great restaurants and of course spending quality time with my husband.
What do you wish you had more of?
Chutzpah to ask people for money for the causes I'm working on. Sleep.
What’s your idea of the perfect vacation?
Warm, beach, ocean.
Tell me about your charitable work and community involvement? What’s your main focus these days?
My main focus is working as a volunteer for Excelsior Youth Center and making a difference in the lives of these girls who need our love and support. I'm one of 3 co-chairs for our next gala on Friday, Feb 24th featuring Lyle Lovett. This will be a great event, and I'm working hard to make sure that happens. To buy tickets go to: https://www.blacktie-colorado.com/online_sales/rsvp_ticket_purchase.cfm?rsvpid=5880 I'm also vice-chair of the EYC Foundation Board, so I'm also working on rebuilding our foundation board which has been fun and exciting.
I'm also very supportive of the Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) and the art museums in our community. The DCPA works so hard to produce wonderful theater, and the art museums work hard to bring us the very best experience they can.
What are you most grateful for?
I feel that since I moved to Denver I've been able to start my life over again. I am so grateful for all of my wonderful friends. I think the people in Denver are so open and willing to welcome you into their community and give you the opportunity to participate. This is the best time of my life.
What’s the secret to wedded bliss?
Ha Ha! - My husband says separate bathrooms. I say we both need our private times alone and with our friends.
Lois, you've spent time on the West Coast, lived on the East Coast - and now in the Rockies. What are your thoughts on living in each of these areas?
I grew up in Philadelphia and now live here. I do miss the accessibility of the ocean but other than that, I just love it here. I think this is the best place I've ever lived. I love the weather, no humidity and a sushi bar on every corner!
What do you believe is your greatest accomplishment to date?
Making a place for myself in this community and being able to give back to the community. It definitely feels better to give than receive. I feel much more happiness when I give of myself and time.
What’s in the future for Lois? Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?
Oy! I hope that I'm still here. LOL… Not sure yet. I'd like to vacation a little more but other than that, I don't have a plan yet.
What will your legacy be?
If I could help Excelsior Youth Center be in the forefront of folk's thoughts for philanthropic giving in this community, that would be wonderful considering the work they accomplish and how many girls they help.
