ALACHUA – For many families attending weekend games and community events, the concession stand is a familiar stop for snacks and drinks. What often goes unnoticed, however, is the group of volunteers working behind the counter; individuals whose time and effort help keep local programs running.
“It is easy to take for granted the convenience of a fully stocked concession stand during a busy weekend of games and events,” an official with Alachua’s Legacy Park said. “However, it is important for our community to recognize that the faces behind the counter are not paid employees — they are dedicated volunteers giving their time and effort to support our local organization.”
The importance of those volunteers was on full display during a recent weekend tournament that drew teams from across the region. 399 Sports & Recreation assisted with Inside Exposure’s AAU Basketball Tournament, which brought teams from across Florida and South Georgia to compete at Legacy Park. Roughly 80 teams participated, with boys and girls ranging in age from 8 to 17.
According to organizers, 399 Sports & Recreation managed concession operations throughout the event, handling the high demand generated by players, coaches and spectators over the multi-day tournament.
According to organizers, volunteers routinely arrive early and stay late to ensure operations run smoothly, particularly during high-traffic weekends filled with youth sports and community gatherings. Their role extends beyond serving food, requiring coordination, preparation and cleanup to maintain a steady flow of service.
“The commitment of these volunteers is truly remarkable, with several people putting in well over 25 hours just this past weekend alone,” the official said. “Their dedication goes beyond just showing up; they put in a significant amount of effort to ensure our concession stand is a success.”
Beyond convenience, concession sales play a critical role in sustaining local athletics. Organizers said all funds raised through the stand are reinvested into the community through youth programs.
“What makes their work even more commendable is that 100 percent of the funds raised through the concession stand goes directly back into our local teams and programs,” the official said.
Funds generated by 399 Sports & Recreation through concession sales are used to support scholarships, purchase new equipment and help cover costs for end-of-season banquets and other team needs, organizers said.
Community leaders emphasized that the effort relies heavily on continued volunteer support and public appreciation. They encouraged attendees to acknowledge those working behind the scenes during future events.
“Please take a moment to thank a volunteer the next time you visit the stand — their hard work is the backbone of our Good Life Community,” the official said.
As spring and summer event schedules continue to fill, organizers say the ongoing success of concession operations, and the programs they sustain, will depend on the same level of community involvement demonstrated in recent weeks.
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