Operation BBQ Relief is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that was founded in May 2011 as a part of relief efforts for Joplin, Missouri, following a devastating EF-5 tornado. Competitive pitmasters and grillmasters from eight states answered the call to feed displaced families and first responders. Together, they served more than 120,000 meals in a 13-day period.
Operation BBQ Relief has served over 9 million meals in 30 different states thanks to over 14,000 volunteers. From staff to volunteers to the network of pitmasters across the country, Operation BBQ Relief is united in sharing the healing power of barbecue through talents and resources.
Stan Hays is the CEO and co-founder of Operation BBQ Relief. A seasoned and accomplished competitor on the barbecue circuit, Hays and fellow cofounder Will Cleaver launched Operation BBQ Relief when a tornado swept through Joplin, Missouri, in 2011. Hays's passion for barbecue and assisting those in distress culminated in creating Operation BBQ Relief, which has served over 9 million meals in 30 states. In 2017, Hays was recognized as a "CNN Hero" for his work with Operation BBQ Relief. Hays has participated in more than 35 sanctioned barbecue contests, with two grand champion awards, four reserve champions, and several top 10 finishes. He was runner-up in the 2015 season of Chopped: Grill Masters on Food Network and in 2019 won Food Network Canada's Firemasters.
Mike Golic, former nine-year NFL veteran and radio host for ESPN's Mike & Mike, brings awareness to the mission of Operation BBQ Relief on the national level as a spokesperson for 2021. Passionate about barbecue and serving his community, Golic supports Operation BBQ Relief. Prior to working with Operation BBQ Relief, Golic was a prominent figure at ESPN. During his time with the worldwide leader, he was best known for being half of the popular morning show Mike & Mike on ESPN Radio and later Golic & Wingo. His 23-year excellence on ESPN Radio earned him a spot in both the Radio and NASB Halls of Fame. He also served as an NFL studio analyst on NFL Live and worked as a color commentator for arena, college, and NFL football. Prior to working at ESPN, Golic played for the Houston Oilers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Miami Dolphins.