UNC Dining Volunteers for Wildlife Conservation at Summer Safari

The University of Northern Colorado (UNC) Dining Services by Sodexo has long been dedicated to making a difference in the community, extending their commitment beyond the campus boundaries. This commitment was prominently displayed through their recent volunteer work and catering support for The Wild Animal Sanctuary (WAS) during the Summer Safari event at the Wild Animal Refuge in Springfield, CO.

The Wild Animal Sanctuary is renowned for its mission to rescue and provide lifelong care for captive great cats, bears, wolves, and other large carnivores living in substandard conditions. With an estimated 30,000 animals needing rescue, the sanctuary works tirelessly across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, and beyond to alleviate the suffering of these creatures. WAS focuses on preventing and alleviating cruelty to animals that have been abused, abandoned, exploited, or illegally kept, providing them with expansive habitats, exceptional diets, and proper veterinary care for life.

In a show of solidarity and support for WAS’s mission, UNC Dining Services by Sodexo catered an event at the Wild Animal Refuge, drawing approximately 2,000 attendees. The menu was thoughtfully crafted to include burritos with vegetarian and vegan/gluten-free options, yogurt parfaits, bagels, fresh fruit, juice, and coffee. This event saw the participation of about 20 staff members and students from UNC Dining Services, who prepared extensively, with cooks working throughout the week and starting as early as 2 AM on the event day. The on-site staff began their day at 5 AM, kicked off the event at 7 AM, and continued until noon.

The primary purpose of the event was to raise funds for WAS in Keenesburg, CO, and the Wild Animal Refuge in Springfield, CO. Volunteers had the unique opportunity to witness lions, tigers, and bears in their natural habitats, a sight that underscored the importance of wildlife conservation. Additionally, all leftover food from the event was donated to the sanctuary to feed the animals, ensuring nothing went to waste.

Participating in the Summer Safari event was a rewarding experience that helped raise awareness of the sanctuary's mission and garnered positive feedback from participants. It fostered a sense of unity and purpose among attendees, volunteers, and organizers, creating a lasting impact on the community. Many students expressed their gratification for being part of a larger mission, noting how the event helped them feel more connected to both their community and the cause of wildlife conservation. One participant mentioned, "It's amazing to see so many people coming together for a common cause. This event has really opened my eyes to the importance of wildlife conservation."

The event's positive impact extended beyond the day itself. The shared experience of volunteering, preparing food, and engaging with attendees created lasting bonds among participants, offering students an opportunity to develop a sense of responsibility and leadership while allowing staff to mentor and guide them in meaningful activities. This collaborative spirit significantly enhanced the overall sense of belonging and pride within the UNC community.

Furthermore, the Summer Safari event provided a platform for alumni to reconnect with their alma mater. Comments like "Hey, I’m an alum of UNC!" highlighted the event's role in fostering a lifelong connection to the university. Alumni participation and support further strengthened the community, creating a network of individuals committed to the same cause.

The Summer Safari has been a cherished event for about 15 years, with UNC Dining Services by Sodexo hosting it for the past three years. This initiative helps connect the public, support a great cause, and showcase the hard work of their volunteers and staff.

By participating in the Summer Safari event, UNC Dining Services by Sodexo is not only supporting the noble cause of wildlife conservation but also building a stronger, more cohesive community. The event exemplifies how collective efforts can lead to significant positive outcomes, fostering a culture of compassion, collaboration, and community spirit.