On Tuesday, 10 March, Triumph’s English 12 class visited Cheyenne’s Needs Inc. to learn about the organization’s role in supporting community members in need, while also volunteering their time and teamwork to help with daily operations.
The group was welcomed by Administrative Coordinator Taylor Vixayarath, who led students on a tour of the facility and explained the many services the organization provides. Students learned how Needs, Inc. prepares food bags, hygiene kits, and distributes gently used clothing and household goods through its thrift store. Vixayarath also discussed how the organization is funded through grants and donations, as well as early planning efforts for an upcoming 5K fundraiser.
Following the tour, students divided into two teams to help with the day’s work. One group prepared food bags for clients while another sorted and refilled hygiene donations. The food preparation crew packaged more than 60 food bags and also broke down cardboard for recycling. Meanwhile, the hygiene team assembled more than 40 hygiene kits while organizing supplies with guidance from Vixayarath.
Students quickly found their rhythm in the volunteer work.
“Dude, give me some AirPods and I’ll go to work,” joked Aidan Neefe as the group got started. “This is a good job.”
Justice Wake Pino did exactly that, settling into the task with music playing and working with machine-like efficiency. Israel Rivera turned the process into a personal challenge, trying to assemble the fastest and most accurate food bags possible.
Throughout the afternoon, students noted how closely the organization’s mission aligns with one of Triumph’s own cultural values: dignity and respect. Vixayarath emphasized that dignity is central to the work at Needs, Inc., from the quality of the items distributed to the way services are provided to clients. Food bags are packed only with high-quality items, and thrift store donations are carefully screened so damaged or worn items are never placed on display.
Some students reflected on discovering a new place in their community. “I think I want to work here,” said Ava Camara, while Madi Whorten added, “This is another good place I didn’t even know about.”
Lorena Carranza was the final student still working when the visit wrapped up, determined to finish refilling shampoo bottles before leaving. “Can we just come here and do this for a class?” another student asked as the group cleaned up their work area.
The visit also comes at an important time for the seniors, who are beginning to plan their upcoming senior projects. The students are deciding whether to partner with established organizations like Needs, Inc. or to develop their own service initiatives inspired by the work they observed.
By the end of the afternoon, students had contributed dozens of prepared food and hygiene bags—and gained a deeper appreciation for the organizations quietly serving the Cheyenne community every day.
