100-Year-Old Served in the Navy, Founded a Church and Works as a Crossing Guard. What He Wants to Achieve Next (Exclusive)

A crossing guard in Milwaukee just celebrated his 100th birthday — and he has no plans of slowing down anytime soon.

“I feel very loved,” Julius Campbell tells PEOPLE. “I’m thankful to all who have made me what I am.”

Over the course of his life, Campbell has done a little bit of everything.

In addition to being a World War II veteran who served in the Navy, Campbell founded a church, got his bachelor’s and master’s degrees — and is a retired Milwaukee Public Schools teacher.

And for over 30 years now, he’s worked as a crossing guard — most recently at Yeshiva Elementary.

“I treasure the friendships,” he says, “and the ties, love and respect I have developed with the community that I’ve served for so long.”

Over the decades, Campbell has received several awards for his commitment to the public and was commemorated by the mayor of Milwaukee with his own day in February. At the local police department’s Merit Awards, he was also honored with the Chief’s Superior Leadership Award.

“I am thankful for getting my flowers while I’m alive,” he tells PEOPLE.

Another special moment came on Dec. 6, when loved ones and other special guests celebrated his milestone birthday, which included public tributes from people whose lives he has touched.

But despite all Campbell has achieved, retirement just isn’t on his bingo card.

“I don’t want to miss that love and connection to this wonderful community,” he explains.

Another way he gives back is by consulting and ministering, following a path that began when he first got his calling as a preacher at the age of 14.

“I like to work with the young people that need guidance,” adds Campbell, who says he started his first church back in 1958. “I help families in need with books, clothing and food programs. Serving God and the community is my hobby.”

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Campbell, who previously told ABC affiliate WISN that his goal was to live to 100, now tells PEOPLE that he has a new one: to live to see 104.

His other goals for the future include staying healthy — mentally and physically — and most importantly, to “continue to serve the community.”