Tyson Foods Named BGC Community Partner of the Year

Tyson Foods has been named the Boys & Girls Clubs of West Central Missouri’s Community Partner of the Year, during a special celebration event Oct. 19.

“Tyson has not only helped support our fund-raising events, but was also instrumental in helping us secure a $100,000 grant for the La Monte Club Site in 2015,” said Executive Director Gary Beckman. “They have gone above and beyond, hosting a truckload sale for us during the summer and, most recently, donating 150 pounds of product for a benefit dinner for a Club family.”

The event also celebrated Boys & Girls Club staff and board members for their work during the previous year. Part-time Employee of the Year was La Monte Site Assistant Lealyn Cook for her work and dedication running the site. Full-time Employee of the Year went to Operations Coordinator Laurie Schirlls.

“Laurie is the glue that holds us all together,” Beckman said. “She communicates well with staff making sure everyone is on the same page, she pitches in and helps at sites and with the resource development team when needed. Laurie is a kind, compassionate and hardworking colleague, demonstrating her love and passion for the Club every day.”

Board Member of the Year was awarded to Barry Henderson, “for his advocacy and dedication to the Club. He is everywhere, visiting sites, volunteering at events, attending committee meetings and more. It is easy to tell that Barry truly cares and wants to be part of providing a great future for all local children. He goes above and beyond for the Club.”

The Club also named its Volunteer of the Year, Sandy Oelrichs, who spends her time helping with Kinder Camp members during the Club’s Summer Program.

“Sandy is always patient, showing our kindergarteners lots of love and giving lots of hugs,” her nomination form read. “She is a tremendous help to the staff and gladly steps in to help with anything that needs to be done.”

In the photos: 

La Monte Site Assistant Lealyn Cook and Operations Coordinator Laurie Schirlls stand with Executive Director Gary Beckman. Cook and Schirlls were named the part-time and full-time Employees of the Year, respectively, for Boys & Girls Clubs of West Central Missouri.

 Tyson Foods Plant Manager Dustin Tippin stands with Boys & Girls Clubs of West Central Missouri Executive Director Gary Beckman. Tyson was named the Community Partner of the Year during a recent Boys & Girls Club event.