When a massive tornado hit Joplin, Missouri, in 2011, champion pitmaster Stan Hays gathered his barbeque buddies together to feed those in need. Today, his nonprofit, Operation BBQ Relief, has responded to more than 40 disasters across the U.S., including Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. The group has provided nearly 1.7 million hot barbeque meals to community members and first responders in 23 states.
Read his story on CNN.com
Video: CNN Hero Stan Hays
Video Extra: Service to country