USO EMEA Announces 2024 Volunteer of the Year, Garth Ritter

Giving back comes naturally to Staff Sgt. Garth Ritter. His initiative and dedication have earned him a truly exceptional honor: USO Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) 2024 Volunteer of the Year. This is not just a local vote; this award spans an enormous region, encompassing 32 USO centers and 1,075 incredible volunteers. To be chosen from this pool of dedicated individuals highlights Garth’s impact.

In addition to being a full-time U.S. Army soldier, Garth has volunteered over 700 hours of his time and has become a valued member of the USO Deployment Processing Center (DPC) team in Kaiserslautern, Germany.

Garth began volunteering two years ago after his leadership recommended it as a great opportunity. After a visit to the center with some of his peers, he decided to complete the training and dedicate his free time to giving back to his local community.

Even when his schedule doesn’t allow for a full shift at the center, Garth finds ways to contribute and make people smile.

Even if I can’t make it to the center to volunteer, I like to bring in some baked goods – 24 brownies disappear so fast.

Sandi Ballew, USO DPC center operations manager, reinforced the impact of these treats: “I know his homemade brownies bring smiles,” she said.

Garth’s impact at the DPC is undeniable and his dedication shines during his volunteer shifts. "During his first shift at our center, he volunteered to play The Grinch at our Christmas Eve celebration,” Sandi said. “He is the guy that will always jump in and do what needs to be done.”

His contributions are appreciated and impactful. From cooking pancakes on a portable hotplate during the holidays to calling bingo numbers with enthusiasm, Garth approaches every event with a genuine desire to make a difference.

When asked about his most memorable USO experience, Garth said, "over the holidays, we were serving breakfast for dinner at the Deployment Processing Center. I was taught efficiency and how to make lots of pancakes quickly to feed tons of people.” Many service members thanked him afterward and said they were grateful for a hot cooked meal.

As a service member who has been deployed himself, Garth has a unique understanding of the challenges faced by those passing through the DPC. He knows the struggle of staying connected to home and loved ones and as someone who understands, he’s able to talk and relate to service members on a deeper level.

Garth also recognizes the importance of building a sense of community and belonging, especially for those far from home. “He loves calling bingo numbers and has helped create innovative programs such as our Murder Mystery Events and Escape the Game Room Event,” says Sandi. “These events are very popular as a team building program with our deployed units.” Creating engaging experiences that offer a welcome distraction, offers service members a chance to connect with each other and de-stress.

Raised in a family that prioritized community service, Ritter has been volunteering since long before his time in Germany. He volunteered with his local church and while stationed at Fort Carson, he worked with the Better Opportunity for Single Soldiers (BOSS) program, which offers quality of life services. He helped with various programs and enjoyed making breakfast for his peers.

Garth’s volunteer experience has benefited countless service members but has also had a positive impact on his own life.

My volunteer experience has taught me how to be efficient and make the best with what you have,“ he said. "I’ve learned not only leadership skills, but creative skills like arts and crafts.

"Garth is a natural born leader,” said Sandi. “The other volunteers listen and respect him. He has been instrumental in finding new volunteers from his unit to assist the USO. He is a humble and all-around great person. The USO is lucky to have him as a volunteer!”

Winning the EMEA Volunteer of the Year award came as a surprise to Garth. “I just enjoy giving back and participating in community service,” he said. “The USO is great at recognizing volunteers for giving their time and efforts outside of work.”

Ssg Garth Ritter demonstrates that even small acts of kindness can make a difference. Whether it’s sharing brownies, calling bingo numbers or simply offering a listening ear, his actions leave a lasting impact. He embodies the spirit of the USO and our mission to strengthen the well-being of the people serving in America’s military and their families.

Garth’s message for anyone interested in volunteering with the USO: “When you move from one area to another, look for your local USO and give back.”

Interested in volunteering with the USO?

As a USO Volunteer, you will provide hospitality, care, and kindness towards military service members and their families at a USO location or special event near you. This may include welcoming guests, serving snacks and beverages, ensuring a tidy, clean and relaxing environment, or by simply providing a listening ear. Learn more here.