At Operation BBQ Relief, our volunteers are the heart of everything we do. Whether you’re a pitmaster with years of competition under your belt, a local restaurant owner, or someone who’s never touched a smoker in your life—there’s a place for you at our table. No experience necessary, just a willingness to serve. Together, we share the healing power of BBQ with communities when they need it most.
How You Can Help
Whether it’s your very first time or you’ve served with us before, there’s a role for you at Operation BBQ Relief. From the kitchen line to the serving line—and everything in between—we’re grateful for your heart to help and can’t wait to serve alongside you.
When catastrophic events hit communities across the country, OBR deploys volunteers in a coordinated response. You might find yourself running smokers, plating meals, serving families, or keeping inventory organized. Whatever your role, you’ll be part of delivering the one hot meal that matters.
Not every mission is a disaster. The Always Serving Project® brings BBQ to heroes year-round —veterans, first responders, and their families—and extends care to food-insecure communities through Days of Giving. Comfort and connection, one plate at a time.
Nestled on 192 acres at Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks, Camp OBR™ is a retreat where military, veterans, first responders, and Gold Star families can recharge, reconnect, and heal. Through culinary therapy, outdoor adventures, and moments of reflection, Camp OBR™ offers hope, strength, and lasting memories for heroes and their loved ones.
To keep this beautiful retreat running smoothly for our guests, we need your help. We’re looking for volunteers within two hours of Lincoln, Missouri, to join our volunteer team.
Interested? Fill out the Camp OBR volunteer interest form, then register as an OBR Volunteer here or on the “OBR Volunteers” smartphone app.
Come see the magic of this place and help us serve our nation’s heroes.
Area Coordinators are our eyes and ears on the ground. They are local leaders who serve as a vital link between our organization and the communities we serve. Area Coordinators gather real-time information about community needs, connect with local partners, and help us provide meals to those in need.
The Area Coordinators also represent OBR with local and state VOADs (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) and share OBR’s mission with local organizations. Additionally, they coordinate and lead Days of Giving events through The Always Serving Project® in their surrounding area.
They are an essential part of our mission to feed communities after disasters and enrich heroes’ lives every day.
When disaster strikes, the journey to recovery begins. For Operation BBQ Relief, that journey often starts on the highway, with a professional driver at the helm. We are searching for skilled CDL holders to join our team of volunteer “Road Warriors.”
You won’t just be hauling equipment; you’ll be transporting the heart of our mission. Imagine steering a convoy carrying mobile kitchens and tons of food, knowing that at the end of your route are families, first responders, and heroes eagerly awaiting a hot meal and a moment of peace.
Your expertise ensures that hope arrives safely and on time.
Put your professional skills to work for a cause that truly matters.
You’re officially part of our volunteer network! When disaster strikes near your area—or when we host an event—we’ll send you an email or text so you can jump in to help.
Tip: Make sure “deployment messages” are turned on in your profile so you don’t miss alerts.
Our team will publish the event in the OBR Volunteers app and send out notifications to volunteers in the area. If you’re available, you can sign up right through the app or website.
Yes! If you’re traveling a long distance, we may reach out to confirm before finalizing your deployment—just to make sure it’s the right fit and you’re set up for success.
We’re a nonprofit, so we’re not able to cover travel or hotel costs for volunteers. If you’re unsure about logistics, reach out before committing—we’re happy to talk it through.
If you have equipment like a smoker, trailer, or refrigeration unit, let your state lead know. Sometimes we do need extra gear on the ground—and when we do, we’ll reach out directly to those who can help.
For safety reasons, volunteers must be 18 or older unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. Deployments can be physically demanding and unpredictable, so we appreciate your understanding.
Absolutely. If your employer requires proof of volunteer hours—or matches donations with service—just let us know and we’ll send what you need.
Yes! OBR volunteers get 20% off ServSafe® training. It’s a great way to build your skills and help ensure safe, high-quality meal service during deployments. Learn more here.
We’re here for you. Reach out anytime at volunteer@obr.org and someone from our team will be happy to help.
