For Richard Waxman, volunteering isn’t just something he does in his spare time – it is a natural extension of who he is. Raised in a family that deeply valued community service, Richard always knew he wanted to give back. When a friend sent him a link to the Operation BBQ Relief (OBR) website a few years ago, thinking it might catch his eye, everything clicked.
“When I read the stories of what OBR does, and how we help the communities, and my true love of cooking… this was just a natural fit,” Richard said.
As a resident of both North Carolina and Florida, Richard’s first hands-on experience with OBR hit incredibly close to home. He jumped straight into the fire during the intense, back-to-back devastation of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
“I ended up in Pinellas Park until that deployment ended,” Richard said. “Then I came back to North Carolina and started helping with the local group.”
That initial whirlwind of disaster relief didn’t overwhelm him; instead, it fueled his passion.
“I was hooked at that point,” he said.
Since then, his dedication has never wavered. Richard has continued to champion the cause, spearheading numerous community events supported by OBR in Western North Carolina and traveling to other events around the country. Due to this relentless drive and his willingness to go wherever he is needed most, Richard was recently honored with OBR’s prestigious The Road Warrior award – a testament to his tireless dedication on the highway of service.
Beyond the communities he serves, Richard has found a profound sense of belonging within the organization itself.
“The people you meet become family immediately,” he said. “The support of the team from our founders, Stan and Will, down to each and every other person I have encountered is inspiring.”
To anyone standing on the sidelines, wondering if they have what it takes to join the OBR family, Richard offers some simple, encouraging advice: just give it a shot.
“The main thing is there is a spot for anyone willing to help,” Richard said. “You don’t have to know how to cook, or be strong, you just have to have a big heart and care.”
Volunteering with OBR is a journey of self-discovery, one that Richard believes everyone should experience. Reflecting on a favorite piece of wisdom shared within the organization, he noted, “As a wise man says often, each of us are there for a different reason. You may not understand why you are there at the beginning, but you will discover that quickly.”
Thank you, Richard, for your big heart, your hard work, and for being a true Road Warrior for communities in need!
To join Richard and the OBR volunteer family, download the “OBR Volunteers” smartphone app or visit our website at https://operationbbqrelief.org/volunteer/new-volunteers.
