Matthew has been a volunteer with Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado since (at least) 2017. During this time he has been persuaded into the Crew Chef leadership role and continues to impress volunteers and staff with how he's always willing to step up and fill in as a crew chef when a project is in need. The weeklong project along the Continental Divide Scenic Trail this year was a great example of that. This project marked Matthew's first backcountry project as crew chef, and he exceeded expectations. Matthew went above and beyond with his planning, packing, and execution!

The volunteer crew chef role is a rewarding but time intensive role due to the prep time that is required in addition to the time spent on an overnight project. Matthew's willingness to take on the crew chef role allowed the project to move forward.

Matthew's food was delicious, and the portion sizes were spot on - something that is incredibly important to get right while feeding volunteers in the backcountry. Matthew put so much thought into making the meals healthy and protein-packed to keep the group energized and ready to work each day. Not only that but he got creative with a fun and delicious dessert every evening, from childhood throwbacks like "dirt with gummy worms" to Oreo and raspberry lasagna! Chilaquiles for breakfast was the proverbial icing on top. Volunteers were treated to a feast on this backcountry project and we couldn't have done it without him.

Matthew is an awesome volunteer and crew chef. He made the weeklong so memorable and delicious and kept everyone laughing and in good spirits with his witty humor. VOC can't thank him enough.