The eighty-first, week-long celebration of Wyoming’s statehood officially ended Sunday, July 11 and saw a variety of events and activities for Laramie residents. Businesses set up booths and downtown was awash with visitors looking to take part in the festivities.
However, now the fun is over and gone. But all of the clean-up still has to happen.
Luckily, Laramie Jubilee Days has a built-in volunteer service meant to help with that task of cleaning up when the party is over.
“We’re always looking for volunteers,” said a representative for the Jubilee Days Board of Representatives. “We put out applications for people to sign up and help with set up, moderation, and the clean up afterwards.”
Jason Topth is a Laramie resident and someone who has volunteered for the clean up positions for eight years in a row now.
“I see a lot of people who are willing to help. Most folks seem to recognize that if we all have fun and take part, then we at least need to pitch in a little help afterwards,” J. Topth said.
“Sunday morning, all of the volunteers are assigned certain duties or areas to cover. Then we just focus on doing whatever needs to be done. Putting away tables, bringing down signs, and trying to move the majority of trash out,” said J. Topth.
Alongside the volunteers, the City of Laramie supplies workers to help clean up trash or take down city utilities such as Port O Potties, traffic cones and signs, or bigger structures.
“We get help where it’s needed and we appreciate everyone out there working with us,” said J. Topth.
Allison Topth, another multi-year volunteer says she’s just as involved as her husband when it comes to the annual statehood celebration.
“I first got involved when Jason and I started dating. I think it’s rewarding for me to be part of something this big,” said A. Topth. “I like knowing I had a hand in building this up and making sure it’s cleaned up properly. People get to enjoy this because of people like Jason and I and I really like that.”
The Topths are just two of the many residents who volunteer their time to help Laramie Jubilee Days go off without a hitch.
According to the Jubilee Days Board of Directors, hundreds of volunteers sign up every year. This year’s number could not be stated exactly.
However, the Board puts out applications for a variety of jobs including the set-up/take-down. Manning the beer tent, and working wherever services are needed.
Volunteer services applications are opened ahead of the festivities and are open for all to find out more and apply if they wish. As the Laramie Jubilee Days volunteer signup says, “Without the help of our devoted volunteers, the great celebration of Laramie Jubilee Days would not exist.”
“I see a good amount of workers out there every year,” said J. Topth. “It’s tough work but I like doing it and I really like enjoying the celebration after I do it.”
