Craig Stoker, Executive Director of Meals on Wheels of Odessa
Published December 2024
ABOUT MEALS ON WHEELS OF ODESSA
Meals on Wheels of Odessa (MOWO) is a powerful example of how community-driven initiatives can grow and thrive with the right partnerships and support. Founded in 1977, MOWO began as a small grassroots effort, purchasing meals from a local cafeteria to address food insecurity in the region. Over the years, the program expanded, ultimately developing its own kitchen and moving to various locations as its needs grew. Today, MOWO serves almost 1,000 people a day, providing not only meals but also vital services for seniors and other vulnerable populations in the area.
ABOUT CRAIG
What makes MOWO’s success even more remarkable is the deep commitment of its leadership development. Craig, who has been with the organization for just over two years, came from the development team at the West Texas Food Bank and knew firsthand the importance of a strong support network. Since taking the reins, Craig has focused on expanding the organization’s outreach, increasing volunteer involvement, and building valuable partnerships with local organizations such as Rainbow House and Family Promise. These relationships, alongside collaborations with Odessa Regional Medical Center, have helped MOWO not only grow its daily service, but also diversify its offerings, including senior support services like home repairs and aging-in-place programs.
THE VALUE OF MEALS ON WHEELS TEXAS MEMBERSHIP
RESOURCES: Craig’s journey highlights why membership in a state-wide network like Meals on Wheels Texas (MOWTX) is crucial. In the food service industry, especially in rural areas like Odessa, there is immense value in having access to a larger network of peers who share similar goals, challenges, and experiences. For Craig, joining Meals on Wheels Texas was a game-changer. MOWTX provided him with essential resources, including grants, networking opportunities, and learning tools to help his organization thrive. As a board member, Craig emphasizes the importance of collaboration, particularly in rural areas where challenges can feel insurmountable without support.
CONNECTION WITH PEERS: One of the key benefits of being part of Meals on Wheels Texas is the ability to connect with peers who have walked similar paths. This network offers more than just professional support—it provides a community of people who are willing to share insights, best practices, and even trial-and-error lessons. Whether it’s learning about starting a pet food initiative, exploring different delivery methods, or simply asking questions at monthly meetings, the value of this collaborative spirit cannot be overstated. For Craig and his team, this network has been instrumental in not only improving operations but also sparking innovative ideas that can be scaled to better serve their community.
ADVOCACY: Beyond the operational benefits, MOWTX also advocates for its members at the state level. In a state where rural areas can often feel isolated, being part of a larger advocacy network ensures that the needs of communities like Odessa are heard. Craig, who understands the importance of having a seat at the table, has used his position within MOWTX to represent his area and fight for resources and recognition. This advocacy ensures that smaller programs have a voice and the support they need to continue their work effectively.
LEARNING AND BEST PRACTICES: Craig also underscores the importance of continuous learning and staying connected to others in the field. MOWO, for instance, has been able to make its volunteer program more efficient and grow its volunteer base thanks to lessons learned from the MOWTX network. Furthermore, by attending MOWTX conferences and regional meetings, Craig and his team have gained critical insights that helped them rethink their operations and delivery methods. In fact, MOWO is about to launch a new program in West Odessa, using what they’ve learned through MOWTX as a blueprint for success.
WHY JOIN MEALS ON WHEELS TEXAS?
Ultimately, the benefits of membership with Meals on Wheels Texas go beyond just the immediate resources—it’s about joining a movement of organizations and individuals committed to making a difference in the lives of those who need it most. By leveraging the support, knowledge, and advocacy that MOWTX provides, organizations like MOWO are not only better equipped to meet the needs of their communities, but they also become part of a broader, statewide effort to ensure that seniors and others in need are cared for with dignity and respect.
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Becoming a member of Meals on Wheels Texas means gaining access to an invaluable support system that fosters collaboration, growth, and innovation. It’s a commitment to not only improving your own organization but also strengthening the collective impact of the Meals on Wheels community across the state. The knowledge, partnerships, and resources you gain can be the difference between a good program and a truly transformative one.