Maurine Dickey (yellow), Founder and Chairman of The Dickey Foundation with Shannon Gauthier, Dickey’s Franchisee in Rancho Cucamonga and the Rancho Cucamonga Firehouse 174
Maurine Dickey, Founder and Chairman of The Dickey Foundation, Leads a Heartfelt Journey of Gratitude in California
Dallas, TX (RestaurantNews.com) Maurine Dickey, Founder and Chairman of The Dickey Foundation (the charitable arm of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants) recently journeyed to California to personally thank the brave firefighters who selflessly protect our communities. Accompanied by dedicated Dickey’s Barbecue franchise owners Eric Lyon (Duarte, CA), Shannon Gauthier (Rancho Cucamonga, CA), and Perri Campbell (Riverside, CA), Mrs. Dickey visited local fire departments in each of those cities to deliver warm meals and heartfelt messages of gratitude.
“Every moment spent with these courageous firefighters reminded me of the true meaning of service and sacrifice,” said Maurine Dickey. “Listening to their stories of battling fierce wildfires and supporting families through unimaginable loss was both humbling and inspiring. It was an honor to show our heartfelt thanks and let them know they are truly valued.”
During these visits, firefighters shared intimate accounts of the emotional and physical toll of combating wildfires that have reduced entire neighborhoods to ashes. In a gesture symbolizing care and community spirit, the team presented “Legit. Texas. Barbecue.™” – a small token of comfort to brighten their challenging days. Although the visit at the Riverside Fire Department was cut short due to an emergency call, it served as a poignant reminder of the relentless dedication required of these everyday heroes.
Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., reflected warmly on the experience:
“At Dickey’s, we’re committed to serving great bbq and to supporting our communities. This visit was our way of saying thank you to those who put everything on the line for us every day.”
Roland Dickey, Jr., CEO of Dickey’s Capital Group, added:
“Firefighters embody the spirit of resilience and sacrifice. Their unwavering dedication, even in the most trying circumstances, inspires us to give back. We are honored to support them and ensure they know how deeply we care.”
The Dickey Foundation remains devoted to equipping and assisting first responders nationwide with the resources they need to continue their critical work. For more information on our initiatives and to learn how you can help support these heroes, please visit TheDickeyFoundation.org.
About The Dickey Foundation
The Dickey Foundation, formerly known as Barbecue, Boots & Badges, is the charitable arm of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. Dedicated to supporting first responders across the United States, the Foundation provides essential safety equipment, protective armor, rescue gear, and financial support to enhance the safety and well-being of those who risk their lives to protect their communities. By partnering with local franchisees and communities nationwide, The Dickey Foundation works tirelessly to ensure first responders have the tools and resources they need to keep us all safe. For more information or to get involved,