Packing A Purpose: July Muster & Mingle at Hollow Park

Our July 1 Muster & Mingle was one for the books! We gathered at Hollow Park for a classic summer carry-in picnic, and while the skies threatened to rain on our plans, the weather cleared just in time for a wonderful evening of food, fellowship, and service.

With our director away enjoying a well-earned vacation, the crew pulled together beautifully in her absence. We kept things simple but hearty with grilled hot dogs, brats, and baked beans—and as always, our veterans didn’t hold back when it came to showing off at the potluck table. Homemade mac and cheese, bean salad, cucumber salad, and more desserts than we could count quickly filled the tables. In fact, the dessert table was twice as full as the savory side—clearly, we know our priorities.

After some quick announcements about upcoming events, Mr. Wooley led us in a heartfelt prayer over the meal, giving thanks for the food, the hands that prepared it, and the time spent together. Then it was time to dig in! Everyone ate their fill—though we’re pretty sure the night’s unofficial record of six hot dogs may stand unbeaten for quite a while.

Once the plates were cleared and the laughter settled, we rolled up our sleeves for the evening’s service project—packing 160 flight bags for the Army National Guard’s 1487th Transportation Company, who are preparing to deploy in support of Operation Spartan Shield.

These bags weren’t packed with just anything—each item was carefully chosen by current and former soldiers who know exactly what makes a difference during long deployments. Every bag was filled with energy drinks, cookies, salty snacks, and water flavoring packets—those little comforts that mean so much when you’re far from home.

What made this project even more special were the handwritten notes many of our veterans included inside the bags. Messages of encouragement, brotherhood, and unwavering support were tucked into each one, reminding the soldiers who receive them that they are not forgotten, and that there’s a whole community back home standing behind them.

This evening perfectly captured what our Muster & Mingle events are all about—good food, great company, plenty of laughter, and coming together to serve others. Rain or shine, our group always finds a way to turn a simple gathering into something truly meaningful.

If you weren’t able to join us, we missed you—but we’ll have plenty of chances to reconnect soon. Keep an eye on our Upcoming Events page and join us as we continue to build friendships, support veterans and caregivers, and serve our community with pride.