WYOMING — In 2025, Food Bank of Wyoming volunteers donated nearly 20,000 hours of their time — the equivalent of nine full-time employees.
This month, the Food Bank of Wyoming is recognizing that extraordinary dedication and impact through its annual Volunteer Appreciation Event on Tuesday, April 21, during Volunteer Appreciation Week.
The event celebrates the incredible impact volunteers have on Food Bank of Wyoming’s mission to nourish people facing hunger across the state. From building food boxes to supporting mobile pantry distributions, their efforts are critical and valued.
“Our volunteers are the quiet force behind everything we do at Food Bank of Wyoming,” Alex Stoops, Food Bank of Wyoming Volunteer Operation & Safety Lead, said. “They show up with compassion, humility, and a genuine desire to help others, often without ever seeking recognition.”
During the event, outstanding individual and group nominees will be awarded across seven award categories:
Large Group Nominees: Shepherd of the Valley; Renewal by Andersen; Jonah BankSchool Group Nominees: — ABLE; St. Anthony’s; Casper College-UW ExtensionFamily Group Nominees: Roberts Family; Cassity Family; Brownless FamilyTherapy Groups Nominees: I Reach 2; Arc; Live InspiredCommunity Group Nominees: Casper Rotary; Oxy; WCDATop Hands Nominees: Cathy Ames; Jimmy Teller; Bonnie BowdishVolunteer of the Year
Award winners will be chosen by a panel of Food Bank of Wyoming staff, who designed the categories to reflect the meaningful and diverse ways volunteers show up and make a difference. The categories highlight the unique strengths, contributions, and stories within the Food Bank’s volunteer network.
“The goal is to make sure every volunteer feels valued and that the awards capture the spirit of what makes this group so special. The truth is, their impact reaches far beyond the walls of the Food Bank,” Alex continues. “It touches families, restores dignity, and brings hope in moments when it is needed most. This event is our way of honoring not just what they do, but who they are and the heart they bring to this work.”
“One of the things I love most about volunteering at Food Bank of Wyoming is that there are opportunities for everyone to be involved — from family members to community organizations, or local businesses. There is something for everyone,” says frequent Food Bank of Wyoming volunteer, Tom McCarthy. “It is also very rewarding to be able to stand back and look at the work you have done, knowing that it will go to help real people in communities around Wyoming.”
Food Bank of Wyoming’s everyday work depends on people who give their time, energy, and compassion without expecting anything in return. Every box packed, every hour given, every small act of kindness adds up to meaningful change for neighbors in need. The Volunteer Appreciation Event brings together volunteers and community members to ensure every person feels seen, valued, and connected.
The Volunteer Appreciation Event will be held on Tuesday, April 21, at the Natrona County Health Trust’s Collective Space in Casper at 5 p.m.
With the increased need for food throughout the state, Food Bank of Wyoming encourages individuals and groups to help put nourishing food on people’s plates. Sign up to volunteer or learn more about getting involved at wyomingfoodbank.org/get-involved/volunteer.
To donate and learn more about Food Bank of Wyoming, visit wyomingfoodbank.org. Food Bank of Wyoming is the largest hunger-relief organization in Wyoming and provides food and essentials directly to people facing hunger and through more than 160 Hunger Relief Partners across the state.
For more information, visit wyomingfoodbank.org.
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