Carmen's retirement celebration

Carmen Ricker was honored in several ways after 38 years as Executive Director of the GGCCM Food Bank at her retirement celebration on June 5. After a warm welcome by Dr. Maynard Austin, Chair of the Board, The VFW Post 1990, with the help of Food Bank

The Carmen Ricker Bench donated by VFW Post 1990

Warehouse Manager, Wayne Phillips, presented her with a bench with her name that will be located in the food bank waiting room. Kevin Morrison, Greene County Mayor presented a proclamation from himself and Greeneville Mayor Cal Doty noting Mrs. Ricker's career of service and proclaiming June 5, 2026 "Carmen Ricker Day." Representative David Hawk had words of thanks and Senator Steve Southerland sent a proclamation signed by the leader of the Tennessee Senate as well as himself. Food Bank Manager, Jamie Painter, presented the details of the new Carmen C. Ricker Senior Fund that has been begun in her name. Finally, Carmen and attendees moved to the conference room, the original waiting room of the smaller food bank of long ago. After a message of thanks by Mark Proffitt, incoming Board Chair, there was an unveiling of the conference room wall, naming the room the Carmen Ricker Conference Room.

Jamie Painter, Food Bank Manager; Carmen Ricker, Executive Director Emeritus; Sally Causey, Community & Outreach Consultant

Wayne, Warehouse Manager; Pam, Senior Interviewer; Carmen Ricker, Executive Director Emeritus; Janet, Interviewer; Susie, Interviewer