Our Mission

At Mr. Bob's Under the Bridge, our mission is to foster a community of compassion and friendship by providing basic necessities such as clothing and hygiene products to the homeless and those who need support in Milwaukee and the surrounding communities.

Our Vision

We envision a welcoming community in which every person receives their basic necessities, guidance, hope, and compassion.

Our Story

Mr. Bob's Under the Bridge began in September 2007 with just six backpacks and open hearts. Founded by Bob and Sue Burmeister, the organization started as a grassroots effort to support Milwaukee's homeless population. In 2012, we became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, allowing us to expand our outreach and serve more individuals in need.

Our Team

Our Co-Executive Directors

 In August of 2023 Mr. Bob's Under the Bridge hired their first ever Co-Executive Directors, Les Feiler and Dave Poethke. Together they have been dedicated and passionate volunteers of Mr. Bob's for nearly a decade. They have seen the organization through all phases of growth, and they have now transitioned into a role that will help the organization continue to grow and serve.

As Executive Directors, Dave and Les are committed to ensuring that our organization runs smoothly and effectively as well as championing our projects for the future.

Board Members, Youth Ambassadors and Support Volunteers

Mr. Bob's Under the Bridge is proud to be run by a passionate and dedicated board. For over 6 years, the Mr. Bob's Board has also included several Youth Board Members made up of talented and enthusiastic high school students who are committed to the progress of the organization.

Bob Burmeister - President

Sarah Young - Vice President/Volunteer Coordinator

Rahim Kevel - Treasurer

Katie Sadowski - Secretary/Operational Committee Chair

Tim Yokes - Youth Board Coordinator

Eddie Gonzalez - Driver Operations Supervisor/Fleet Maintenance Coordinator

Amy Burmeister - Development Committee Chair

Kim Jaeger - Community Liaison

KC Kranich - Community Liaison

MaryBeth Fisher - Community Food Banks Liaison

Ana Yokes - Youth Ambassador

Sofie D’Angelo - Youth Ambassador

Katie Chandek - Youth Ambassador

Penelope Fenton - Youth Ambassador

Maddie Katte - Youth Ambassador

Landon Teasdale - Youth Ambassador

We Meet Friends Where They Are.

Our Programs

From weekly outreach to mobile showers and youth service, our programs bring dignity, support, and hope to those who need it most.

Weekly Outreach

Mobile Shower Trailer

Volunteer Engagement

Timeline

2007

Mr. Bob’s Under the Bridge is Born

Bob and Sue Burmeister begin outreach with just six backpacks filled with supplies—marking the start of a grassroots mission to serve Milwaukee’s homeless community.

2012

Official Nonprofit Status Granted

Mr. Bob’s becomes a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, expanding its reach and allowing for greater community support and sustainability.

2019

Mobile Shower Trailer Launches

A four-stall mobile shower trailer begins operation, offering dignity, hygiene, and a rare moment of comfort to those without access to basic facilities.

2021

New Facility at Ozaukee Nonprofit Center

Mr. Bob’s moves into a larger space to better organize, store, and distribute donated items—scaling up operations for growing community needs.

2023

First Co-Executive Directors Appointed

Long-time volunteers Les Feiler and Dave Poethke step in to help lead the organization into a new chapter, continuing the mission with heart and vision.

In my world, we have to make sure

our friends know that we care.

— Mr. Bob