Wendell Foster and Chamber Young Professionals (CYP) are hosting a First Responders BBQ on Thursday, July 17, from 10:30 am to 1:00 pm at Wendell Foster’s Sensory Park. The annual event honors local first responders in Owensboro and Daviess County. All first responders in the area are invited to a cookout with a free lunch grilled by Atmos Energy, complimentary ice cream from Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, yard games, music by Blue Line Entertainment, and door prizes.
Wendell Foster created the First Responders BBQ in 2018 with the goal of uniting Wendell Foster care recipients and staff with first responders they may typically only see on a work-related basis. Doug Hoyt, CEO of Wendell Foster, expressed his appreciation for local emergency personnel, saying, “First responders dedicate themselves to protecting our community every single day. Each year, Wendell Foster is proud to show our gratitude by providing them with a lunch in their honor.” He also shared his excitement about continuing the organization’s collaboration with the Chamber Young Professionals. “I’m excited to once again team up with the Chamber Young Professionals for the third year in a row. Their involvement in the First Responders BBQ adds great value to the event and reinforces the importance of recognizing the service of these dedicated individuals,” Hoyt added.
CYP gives an opportunity for professionals 40 years and younger to network and educate themselves on important issues facing the Greater Owensboro area. The group, an affiliate of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, participates in community service projects, social events, corporate tours, and professional development. Jared Revlett, Chair of CYP, said CYP members will have the opportunity to interact with first responders and Wendell Foster residents at the the BBQ to make strong connections and build community. “One of CYP’s goals is to strengthen relationships with different groups throughout Owensboro while deepening our understanding of the community we live in,” Revlett said. “Bringing young professionals to our city matters, but what truly sets Owensboro apart is our quality of life. The more we engage with others, the more united and resilient our community becomes.”
Revlett expressed his excitement in the group’s partnership with Wendell Foster for the event. “CYP is excited for the opportunity to recognize the service our first responders provide to our families every day. We feel humbled to partner again with an accomplished organization like Wendell Foster, who has raised the quality of life for so many in Owensboro and beyond for decades. We’re also looking forward to the BBQ Buddies program, which pairs a CYP member with a Wendell Foster client to build friendships and enjoy the BBQ together. Partnerships like this one are incredibly meaningful for CYP.” said Revlett.
RSVP is not required to attend the cookout. Wendell Foster and CYP are looking forward to honoring the men and women serving our local community and showing appreciation for the sacrifices they make each day.