Friendship Through Service at The Gathering: Volunteer Highlight

Volunteering at The Gathering is about more than serving meals—it’s about building meaningful connections that extend far beyond the kitchen. For Steve Komes, David Francz, Bill Armstrong, and Bill Hunt, what began as a shared commitment to serve has grown into lasting friendship.

The four first met while volunteering and now regularly serve side by side, supporting The Gathering’s mission while enjoying the camaraderie that comes with it.

Steve Komes, a volunteer for three years, is a retired businessman who previously spent time volunteering with Hunger Task Force. After discovering The Gathering, he quickly felt at home. What keeps him coming back is the sense of teamwork and connection. “The camaraderie with the staff and volunteers keeps me coming back,” he shares.

David Francz, a retired psychotherapist, has volunteered for two years after learning about The Gathering through his wife’s involvement with the Shorewood Women’s Club. Drawn in by the mission, he found something even more meaningful in the relationships built along the way. “I believe in the mission, and I enjoy working alongside my buddies,” he says.

Bill Armstrong began volunteering in 2021 after seeing his son serve while attending Marquette University. Inspired to get involved himself, Bill now values both the impact of the work and the relationships formed. “I enjoy the people here and being part of something that helps others,” he shares.

Bill Hunt, also a volunteer for three years, discovered The Gathering online. With a passion for preparing meals and serving others, he quickly became a familiar face each Thursday. “Serving the guests and community every Thursday keeps me coming back,” he explains.

Together, these four volunteers embody the spirit of The Gathering—where service and friendship go hand in hand. Their story is a reminder that while volunteers make an incredible impact on those they serve, they are also building something meaningful for themselves: connection, purpose, and community.

As we celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Month, we are especially grateful for volunteers like Steve, David, Bill, and Bill—and the many others who show up week after week with generosity and heart.

Because at The Gathering, it’s not just about meals—it’s about the relationships that nourish our community.