I heard about Mr. Bob and his friends in the park, as he endearingly calls them, about 17 years ago. I loved his mission and wanted to get involved, even if it was in a small way. I visited Mr. Bob the following summer with one of my friends. Back then, the Saturday morning gathering was at Cathedral Square Park, in downtown Milwaukee. Bob only had a 4’x6’ trailer and one helper at the time, but his big heart was enough. Needless to say, I was hooked!
As a high school teacher and advisor for our Volunteer Club in Peshtigo, Wisconsin, I wanted our students to experience Mr. Bob’s and his friends in the park. In the winter of 2011, 26 students collected various items (hygiene kits, winter hats, mittens/gloves, hand warmers,..) to pass out at the new location, Zeidler Park, on West Michigan St. It was cold and snowy that day, but the kids had a blast serving others.
For the past 16 years, our yearly Mr. Bob’s trip has been the student’s favorite event. Students have actually joined our Volunteer Club just to go on the trip. I can honestly say, it is a highlight each year for me as well. Students leave the park feeling empowered to serve others well, just like Mr. Bob and all the volunteers who faithfully show up every Saturday to serve our friends in the park.
With gratitude,
Dan Vanidestine
Peshtigo High School
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Vocational Studies Teacher
Volunteer Club Advisor
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