MEET THE P4P BOARD
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MEET THE P4P BOARD *
Chairman of the Board/Co-Founder
Paul Zais
A Wisconsin native come to Johnston County NC via Fort Bragg, Paul AKA “The Mule”, took the crazy challenge offered by our Co-Founder Allen Williford in 2013. They both embarked on the maiden journey down the Neuse River quite literally, Paddling for Pennies.
Paul being one of 3 generations of Fire Chiefs and a combat veteran has a deep passion for the mission of P4P and the individuals they have assisted over the years.
Paul has had the support of his wife and two grown sons since day one of this adventure. As our group Elder, he has taken quite a beating by the Neuse River and some say, by the Media coverage as well,. If you click on the link from 2013 on our page you will see how he acquired the nickname, “THE MULE”. Be careful what you say while the cameras are rolling, it just might make the 5PM news!
When you don't see Paul out doing something in his spare time to help out his brothers, you will find him at Northside Fire & Rescue where he is the Assistant Chief working for his community. I dare say you will be hard pressed to find a more dedicated selfless individual! Paul is looking forward to the next adventure. or whatever “crazy” thing Allen brews up next time!
President/Co-Founder
Allen Williford is a Captain on the Rescue truck at Northside Fire & Rescue in Archer Lodge, NC. A devoted husband to his wife, Kory, and a proud father to four incredible children—Clara (19), Rylee (15), Kaeli (14), and Maverick (9)—his greatest joy and accomplishment is his family. Allen also has a deep love for the outdoors and a passion for taking on challenges.
In 2013, he came up with a bold idea: to paddle the entire 193-mile Neuse River in just a few days. While others had completed the journey before, few had attempted it at such a grueling pace. As he planned the logistics, he saw an opportunity to turn this personal challenge into something greater—supporting his fellow first responders.
Along with his friend, Chief Paul Zais, Allen launched Paddling for Pennies, asking donors to contribute just a penny per mile to support first responders in need. The initiative grew, leading to the creation of Paddling for Pennies.
In addition to his non-profit work with P4P , Allen is also involved with a cancer non-profit "Love is Bald," started in honor the life of a good friend of his that lost her battle with cancer.
Vice President
Brandon Jones
Brandon Jones was born and raised in Grantham North Carolina, He has been married to his bride Michelle since 2002 and they have 2 wonderful children. He is the Chief of Thoroughfare Volunteer Fire Department a Captain with the City of Goldsboro Fire Department and the Assistant Chief of Mar Mac Volunteer Fire Department. He was first introduced to the Paddling for Pennies group in 2015 when his brother-in-law Ian McClanahan was the recipient of this groups generosity. Ever since then he has been an strong advocate for everything Paddling for Pennies stands for.
Treasurer
Lisa Thompson
Lisa resides in Kenly NC with her husband Brett. She has two adult children, one local in NC and the other, overseas in Japan. She is the owner of two small businesses, the part-time office manager at Hydrocut Land Clearing.. Coming from an entire family of First Responders, she joined up with P4P for the 2021. Paddle. Though she threatened to quit a couple times along the journey, she did complete it! Her personal claim to fame is that she did so, in a barely suitable Walmart kayak. Since then, she has been dedicated to making her dad, a past Chief, proud by continuing her involvement with P4P and last year, slaying future paddles! Oh, and thankfully she got herself a sweet, upgraded kayak! In addition to her business ventures and non-profit work, Lisa also enjoys spending time at the barn with her TWH horse "Red" , cycling, camping and of course Kayaking.
Secretary
April Melrose
April, a Goldsboro, NC native, has raised her family in Wayne County, where her three grown children also reside. Inspired by her grandfather—a respected surgeon and EMS medical director in Goldsboro—she pursued a career in emergency medicine. April is a Paramedic with Wayne County EMS and dedicates her spare time to teaching first responders. An outdoor enthusiast and avid golfer, she can often be found on the course when the weather allows.
She became involved with Paddling for Pennies after a close friend and co-worker, also a board member, was injured in an accident. April played a key role in organizing and leading fundraising efforts to support his recovery, which deepened her commitment to the organization. Over the years, she has volunteered for numerous events, solidifying her dedication to the mission. With more than 15 years of experience in nonprofit work and event planning, April is passionate about supporting first responders and veterans.
Andrew Conant
Andrew Conant is the newest board member of the Paddling for Pennies (P4P) family!
Many in our community, especially those familiar with Fort Bragg, may recognize Andy from his time as an active-duty officer with the 82nd Airborne Division. In 2008, he transitioned from active duty to the Alabama National Guard, where he continues to serve with pride. With multiple overseas deployments in support of the Global War on Terrorism, we are deeply grateful for his leadership and dedication to our country. His wealth of experience in the community, business and military service make him an invaluable asset to our board—and we are grateful to have him on this journey with us!
Of all his achievements, Andy is most proud of his children and his service to his country and its citizens. His son, Aaron (20), is studying Construction Management at East Carolina University, while his daughter, Virginia (22), is pursuing a degree in Speech Pathology at James Madison University.
Beyond his military service, Andy has built a successful career as a director of business operations and development in the aerospace market. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoys playing guitar, cycling, fishing, golf, and shooting. Most notably, his deep love for kayaking makes him a perfect fit for Paddling for Pennies!
Tim Johnson
Tim is a dedicated board member of Paddling for Pennies, with a lifelong commitment to public service. He served as a volunteer firefighter with the Smithfield Fire Department for 20 years, including 10 years as Chaplain, following in the footsteps of his father, who was Fire Chief for two decades. Tim also spent 30 years with the Town of Smithfield’s Parks and Recreation Department, retiring as Director in 2014.
Now an Engagement Officer with Civic Federal Credit Union, Tim works closely with local governments and fire departments across southeastern North Carolina. His deep ties to the fire service make P4P’s mission especially meaningful to him, as he understands the challenges first responders face.
A longtime NC State fan, Tim enjoys attending Wolfpack games and spending time with his wife, Debbie, their three children, and two granddaughters at Ocean Isle Beach. He’s also been spreading holiday cheer as Santa Claus for 35 years at local events and parades.
