Why Wait? Mayor Cavalier Johnson Steps Up to Serve Milwaukee Neighbors This Summer

When Milwaukee’s need grows, showing up matters.

This summer, The Gathering has seen a significant increase in the number of meals being served to Milwaukee neighbors—and with that increased need comes an increased need for volunteers.

That’s why we were especially grateful when Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson decided not to wait until the holiday season to return to The Gathering. After hearing about the growing demand for meals and the shortage of volunteers needed to meet it, the Mayor moved up his plans and chose to serve now.

On Wednesday, August 26, Mayor Johnson joined The Gathering at Running Rebels to serve meals alongside volunteers and staff, helping provide not only a nutritious meal, but also the welcome, dignity and sense of community that are at the heart of The Gathering.

A Tradition of Service

This visit marks the third time Mayor Johnson has served alongside The Gathering, continuing a relationship that dates back to the beginning of his administration.

In fact, one of Mayor Johnson’s first official acts after taking office was volunteering at The Gathering. From the beginning, his willingness to roll up his sleeves and experience firsthand the needs facing Milwaukee neighbors has demonstrated a meaningful commitment to community service.

This time, however, his return came with a different sense of urgency.

The Mayor had originally hoped to return during the holiday season—a time when community needs are often especially visible. But when he learned just how much demand for meals had increased this summer, and how many additional volunteers are needed across The Gathering’s meal sites, he made a simple decision:

Why wait?

Summer Hunger Doesn't Take a Break

For many people, summer means vacations, longer days and time with family and friends. But for neighbors experiencing hunger or housing instability, the need for a nutritious meal and a welcoming place to gather doesn't disappear when the calendar turns to summer.

In fact, The Gathering has experienced a substantial increase in meals served this summer as more Milwaukee neighbors turn to community meal programs for support.

At the same time, volunteer needs have grown across all four of The Gathering’s meal sites.

Every meal requires a team. Volunteers help prepare and serve food, welcome guests, create a warm environment and make sure each person who walks through the door is treated with dignity and respect.

As Executive Director Lyn Hildenbrand shared, “We are incredibly proud to welcome Mayor Johnson back to The Gathering—and especially grateful that he heard about the need and said, ‘Why wait?’”

She added, “That kind of leadership—seeing a need and stepping forward to help meet it—is exactly what our community needs.”

A Call to Milwaukee to Show Up

Mayor Johnson’s decision to serve now is more than a single day of volunteer service. It is an invitation to all of us to pay attention to what is happening in our community—and consider how we can help.

The Gathering needs volunteers now—not just during the holidays.

Whether you can volunteer for a few hours one time, bring a group of coworkers, gather your family, or become a regular volunteer, your time makes a direct difference.

Individuals, families, businesses, faith communities, schools and community organizations are all welcome.

No special experience is required. Just a willingness to show up, lend a hand and serve alongside others.

Because every meal served takes a team. And every volunteer helps make sure a Milwaukee neighbor has not only a nutritious meal, but a welcoming place to gather.

Ready to Serve?

Join Mayor Johnson and the many volunteers who make The Gathering’s work possible throughout the year.

Volunteer opportunities are available at all four of The Gathering’s meal sites throughout the week.

Learn more and find a volunteer opportunity:
thegatheringwis.org