Food Bank of West Central Texas Names Kenny Gillett 2026 Volunteer of the Year
ABILENE, Texas — June 20, 2026
Recognition Presented During Food Bank Night at the Ballpark
ABILENE, Texas — June 20, 2026 — The Food Bank of West Central Texas recognized longtime volunteer Kenny Gillett as its 2026 Volunteer of the Year during Food Bank Night with the Abilene Flying Bison on June 17 at Crutcher Scott Field at ACU.
Gillett was honored in front of Flying Bison fans for his extraordinary commitment to the Food Bank's mission and his more than seven years of dedicated volunteer service.
Every Wednesday, Gillett arrives at the Food Bank ready to serve. Over the years, he has become a familiar and beloved presence among staff, volunteers, and community partners. Known for his positive attitude, dependable work ethic, and passion for helping others, Gillett has contributed thousands of volunteer hours supporting hunger relief efforts across West Central Texas.
"Volunteers are the heart of our mission, and Kenny represents the very best of what volunteer service looks like," said Brandon Forrest, President and CEO of the Food Bank of West Central Texas. "For more than seven years, he has shown up week after week with a servant's heart and a genuine desire to help others. His dedication has made a lasting impact on our organization and the neighbors we serve."
The recognition took place during the Food Bank's partnership event with the Abilene Flying Bison, which brought together hundreds of fans to support hunger relief efforts while celebrating community service. The evening raised food and financial donations for the Food Bank and highlighted the vital role volunteers play in helping provide food assistance throughout the region.
For Gillett, volunteering is about giving back to the community he loves and supporting families facing difficult circumstances.
His weekly commitment reflects the spirit of service that helps make the Food Bank's work possible. Each year, hundreds of volunteers donate their time to sort food, prepare distributions, support special events, and assist with programs that help feed children, families, seniors, and veterans across the Food Bank's 13-county service area.
"Kenny's impact extends far beyond the hours he volunteers," Forrest said. "He brings joy, encouragement, and a sense of community to everyone around him. We are incredibly grateful for his service and proud to recognize him as our 2026 Volunteer of the Year."
The Food Bank of West Central Texas serves 13 counties across nearly 13,000 square miles and is on track to distribute nearly 5 million pounds of food in 2026.
Individuals interested in volunteering with the Food Bank can learn more by visiting www.fbwct.org/volunteer.
About the Food Bank of West Central Texas
The Food Bank of West Central Texas leads the fight against hunger across a 13-county service area by sourcing, storing, and distributing food through a network of partner agencies and direct-service programs. The organization provides food assistance to children, families, seniors, and veterans while working to create a hunger-free West Central Texas.