Boys & Girls Clubs of West Central Missouri recently honored two longtime supporters of the Club at the second annual Legacy Awards, held April 27 at the Sedalia Country Club. The Hayden family and Tyson Foods were both recognized for their lifetime of support and advocacy of the Club and the children it serves.

“It was an honor to include the Hayden family and Tyson Foods at the Legacy Awards,” said Executive Director Gary Beckman. “Their passion and advocacy of the children Boys & Girls Club serves truly shows their dedication to the community and its next generation of leaders.”

Honoring and serving the next generation was the theme of the morning, which kicked off with a speech from Boys & Girls Club Washington Site member America who spoke about her time at the Club and what it means to her.

In his introduction of the individual Legacy Award, the Rev. Robert Hughes noted the Hayden’s commitment to their community through their many charitable endeavors and championing of causes including Retrieving Freedom and the Boys & Girls Club.

“It has been my joy to be their minister and see in person their deep faith and deep desire to serve this community,” Hughes said.

In accepting the award on behalf of his family, Bob Hayden spoke of the importance of supporting, taking care of and leading the way for the next generation.

Sedalia Area Chamber President Debra Andresen echoed those thoughts as she introduced the corporate award winner Tyson, noting they champion and support many organizations in town.

“We’re proud to accept this award and look forward to a long future of continuing to help Boys & Girls Club,” Tyson Complex Manager Dustin Tippin said.

The awards breakfast was capped off with a donation drive, which rose nearly $10,000 for the Club.