During our meeting on September 28th, we had the pleasure of hearing a classification talk by our members, Chad and Gina Hilker. Their journey, filled with love, family, and community, serves as an testament to the power of taking chances and following paths as they present themselves to us.
Chad hails from the state of Texas, specifically from the eastern region, where he grew up as one of five siblings. Gina, on the other hand, originates from Yakima, Washington, and her early years were spent living with her sister on a military base in California before eventually finding her way to Texas.
The stars aligned when Chad and Gina crossed paths in Texas, where they embarked on a remarkable journey together that has spanned 22 years.
Gina's passion for children shines brightly, and it stems from her personal journey. She candidly shared that she wasn't always a model child in her younger years, but she has since channeled her experiences into making a positive impact on children in the community.
Chad's career has been an exciting journey through various industries, including a 16-year stint with Albertsons, a role as a Kellogg's sales representative, positions at Schwans and Omaha Steaks, and a tenure at Big Lots. He humorously recalled initially thinking that the Grocery Outlet advertisements were a scam. However, their desire for change led them to consider a bold new path.
Together, Chad and Gina took the courageous step of applying for positions with Grocery Outlet, and their journey led them to operate stores in different locations, starting in Los Angeles and Portland before ultimately settling in Arlington, a place they've come to regard as home. Arlington's community-oriented atmosphere and close-knit environment resonated with them, reaffirming their love for small-town life.
While the transition to Grocery Outlet ownership initially felt like a daring risk, it ultimately proved to be a life-changing decision for the better. As they shared their experiences, it became clear that the support of the Arlington community, as well as the guidance of fellow Rotarian Mel Simpson, played a crucial role in their journey.
Chad and Gina's remarkable story serves as a testament to the power of embracing new opportunities, following one's heart, and finding a true sense of home within a community. We are grateful to have them as part of our Rotary Club, contributing their passion, dedication, and love for Arlington.
