Today we’d like to introduce you to Carolyn Benavides.
Hi Carolyn, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’m from Carrollton, and my husband is from Farmers Branch. We met in 9th-grade Algebra class and have been together ever since—high school sweethearts from the CFBISD R.L. Turner Class of 1983. We’re blessed with four sons and two grandsons.
Our family’s passion for giving back began in the early 1980s. Being blessed with success at a young age, we bought our first home in an older neighborhood of Farmers Branch, we started by helping senior citizens with small household needs and repairs. That simple act of service planted the seeds of what would become our family charity, Verb.
My first job at First City Bank in Farmers Branch opened our eyes to the challenges faced by single mothers who had moved to the suburbs in search of a better life for their children. Their financial struggles touched our hearts deeply. We began quietly supporting them with essentials—new clothes for school, backpacks, and supplies—helping to ease their burden and remind them they weren’t alone, walking with them, praying with them and giving them faith in the Lord was what made us all stronger.
Our sons’ school experiences opened the door for me to get involved through the PTA, where I became a Life Member. I served as a classroom mom, field trip chaperone, and office volunteer—fully embracing every opportunity to support their education. As a stay-at-home mom, I stayed busy and engaged in the school community.
Their involvement in sports brought even more opportunities to serve. I was a coach and the Treasurer of the CFB Soccer Association for eight years and Treasurer of the Farmers Branch Little League for six. I also served as team mom and travel coordinator for the Bomber Football League.
Beyond administrative roles, I made it a priority to support underserved and underprivileged families in CFB—helping with financial assistance for registrations, providing shoes, and serving as an interpreter and advocate to ensure every child had a chance to participate and thrive.
Our family’s deep love and ongoing commitment to the community have helped create a strong sense of unity, shaping a more compassionate culture within CFB’s neighborhoods and organizations. What began as simple acts of service grew into something much larger—anchored in a desire to meet real, local needs.
Through our family-owned restaurant, Joe’s Pizza at Belt Line and Josey Lane in South Carrollton, we launched a clothes closet and soup kitchen that have been serving the community since 2006. The restaurant has become a beacon of hope, especially for those facing hard times.
We accept gently used clothing, small household items, and furniture (on a case-by-case basis), with 100% of donations going directly to individuals and families in need. Each month, our soup kitchen serves lunch to over 200 senior citizens, as well as homeless individuals and Veterans in our area.
Through collaboration and shared resources, we’re able to offer a wide range of social services to support individuals from all walks of life. These services include street showers, mental health support, utility and prescription assistance, homeless outreach, and housing solutions—working in partnership with programs across Denton and Dallas counties.
One of the most rewarding aspects of our work is providing job training and volunteer opportunities for young adults with special needs. These experiences create a sense of purpose, community, and belonging—for them and for us.
By supporting our restaurant, you’re helping us give back to the CFB community all year long. Our most impactful event is the annual Thanksgiving Day Soup Kitchen, made possible entirely through donations and community support. Each year, we provide over 5,000 individuals with a warm, free turkey dinner on Thanksgiving Day.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of our volunteers, we exceed 10,000 volunteer hours each year—proving what a caring, connected community can truly achieve.
Our restaurant family has grown to include Joe’s Pizza in South Carrollton, Joe’s Pizza St. Elmo, and Amici Signature Italian—each offering a unique taste of our passion for food and community.
Join us for a dine-in experience at Joe’s Pizza St. Elmo, located on the south side of Richland Chambers Lake at 511 FM 416, Streetman, Texas. Enjoy authentic New York-style pizza, fresh pasta, and hearty subs. Call 903-533-1701 for more information.
Prefer to stay in? Order delivery from Joe’s Pizza in South Carrollton by calling 972-416-6555—bringing your favorite dishes straight to your door.
Planning a special event? Let Amici Signature Italian cater with chef-crafted, classic American-Italian dishes made from scratch. Contact us at 972-245-3191 to customize your menu.
Looking to add something special to your party or community event? Book our food truck-trailer, serving New York-style pizza and scratch-made American-Italian favorites. Available Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As teen parents, obstacles included the challenges of kids having kids. Without our families, our faith and Gods favor in our lives we would not have come through. Our obstacles and challenges are a blessing and a springboard to help others succeed and survive.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My husband, Richard, is self-employed and brings exceptional problem-solving skills to his work. As a master mechanic with expertise in HVAC and electrical systems, he offers a rare and valuable specialization in diesel sales and service. His dedication and flexibility give me the freedom to pursue my passion: serving our community.
I’m actively involved in many roles that support and shape our local area. As a CFBISD School Board Trustee, I’ve had the honor of helping guide educational policy to support student success. Through the CFBISD Education Foundation, I help raise funds to provide scholarships and grants that open doors for students to continue their education.
freedom of many ways comes from the Lord, One of my proudest accomplishments is helping to create and support innovative medical program opportunities through my work on the Hospital Authority Board. Additionally, it’s deeply rewarding to give back to the dedicated men and women of the Carrollton Police Department through their Foundation—supporting those who give so much to keep us safe.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
God has provided us Firsthand knowledge and experience of the belief that living generously costs nothing but the willingness to do so is a blessing. Choosing to give everything and serve those in need is the least we can do with the time we have on this earth
Contact Info:
- Website: https://joespizzasubs.com
- Instagram: thejoespizza
- Facebook: Joespizzasubs Carrolton
Image Credits
thejoespizza
