BBQ Fam Jam

​With summer finally here, it’s the perfect weather to have a BBQ, and that’s exactly what we did at our BBQ Fam Jam—but to us, the event is so much more than just another BBQ! It’s an event where Jack's members can meet and spend time with Jack's volunteers. It’s the perfect opportunity for everybody to meet the great people that create this Jack's family. 

​I’m a huge believer that good food brings people together, and for this BBQ, I was going to need the very best food—which for me, comes from Firebox Deli. It’s an iconic BBQ joint located in North Minneapolis near the Camden community that has amazing food and great service.

Instagram Photo of the Delicious BBQ

​While I had the perfect food for the picnic, I also needed a good location for the event! I’ve always been a huge fan of Wabun Park, a great place in Minnehaha Park that has grilling stations, a pool, and best of all, free parking! I arrived early with a group of friends and family to start setting up. 

No Better Game In A Park

For me, the picnic was a huge success! My girlfriend did an amazing job grilling burgers and hot dogs, and the Firebox Deli food was a major hit with everyone there. We had your standard picnic games like beanbag toss ready to go, but I also made sure to grab my chess set, because honestly there is no better game than chess in a park. 

Compassion, Courage, Resilience, and Respect

The food, beer, and games definitely helped set the scene, but to me, the most important part of this picnic were the guests, volunteers, and other members of the Jack's family. Kyle gave an inspiring speech about the core values that our Jack's family emphasizes and promotes in all its team members: compassion, courage, resilience, and respect. To us, those values define what we do in this organization, and each work in tandem to create something truly special. 

I’d like to thank my friends and family for helping set up the picnic, the great families who came out to attend, and the other members of Jack's family who made sure that this was an event to remember. 

By: Josh Carr

This is your BBQ Fam Jam Champion! I was born and raised in Northeast Minneapolis. BBQing is my favorite thing to do anytime of the year but especially when there isn’t snow on the ground. I graduated from UW-Stout in May 2017 with a bachelors in construction. ​I currently live in Brooklyn Center with my girlfriend, Mariah. I like to play sports, video games, and chess.

Josh and Mariah