At Petroplan, community isn’t just something we talk about; it’s something we take part in. Recently, members of our Houston team spent a day volunteering with Kids’ Meals Houston, a local nonprofit that delivers free, healthy meals to preschool-aged children living in food insecurity.

On the surface, our task seemed simple: decorating paper lunch bags. But as the markers and paint pens came out, it became clear how much heart goes into every small detail of this program. These bags don’t just hold food; they carry care, color, and encouragement for children who may be facing challenges far beyond their years.

The volunteers gathered around tables covered with bright paints and crayons, each person creating their own message of hope: smiling suns, cheerful animals, kind words like “You are loved” or “Have a great day.” The goal was to remind each child who receives a meal that someone took time to think about them, that they matter, and that their community is rooting for them.

Kids’ Meals serves thousands of children across Houston every weekday, providing nutritious meals directly to their homes. For many of these children, it’s the only meal they can count on. The organization’s mission is both simple and profound, fighting hunger with consistency and compassion. The hand-decorated bags help bring dignity and joy to that experience, transforming a moment of need into one of care and connection.

“It’s a privilege to support organizations like Kids’ Meals that meet such an essential need in our city,” said Arash Roknian.

“For us, volunteering isn’t just about giving time; it’s about being present. We want everyone at Petroplan to have opportunities to get involved, to contribute, and to feel connected to the people and communities we serve. That’s an important part of who we are.”

For the Houston team, the experience was as grounding as it was uplifting. It served as a reminder that even small gestures can make a real difference when done with care. The laughter around the table, the conversations about creativity, and the thought behind each design reflected a shared belief that empathy and action belong at the center of everything we do.

At Petroplan, we’re proud of the technical expertise and professionalism our teams bring to the energy industry every day. But we’re equally proud of their willingness to show up for others, whether that means volunteering at a food program, supporting youth initiatives, or helping rebuild communities after a storm.

The day at Kids’ Meals was about giving back, but it was also about perspective. It reminded us that service and compassion are powerful tools, not just in our work but in our lives. And if a hand-drawn heart or a few bright colors can make a child smile, then that’s something worth every moment we spent.