From the Archives: A Day of Service on Polk Street

Before the Conway Ministry Center expanded into its current home, ministry happened every day inside the familiar walls of our former location on Polk Street. One photograph from 2018 captures a moment that many volunteers still remember well.

In the image, volunteer Debra Craig gathers the team together in prayer before the doors open. Heads are bowed, hands are joined, and hearts are focused on the mission ahead. It was a simple but powerful reminder that the work about to begin was about much more than distributing food—it was about serving people with compassion and dignity.

At the time, Mike Rush was serving as Storehouse and Operations Director. The need in our community was growing rapidly, and volunteer teams often worked from 9:00 a.m. until the final family had been served, sometimes not finishing until 3:00 p.m. Even with a full day of effort, it could feel impossible to keep up with the demand.

The work was physically demanding. Volunteers stocked shelves, packed food, greeted guests, carried boxes, and helped ensure every person who came through the doors received care and encouragement. By the end of the day, everyone was tired.

But alongside the exhaustion came something else—satisfaction.

There was satisfaction in knowing that families would have meals on their tables. Satisfaction in seeing neighbors care for neighbors. Satisfaction in being part of God's work in our community.

Looking back, that photograph is more than a snapshot of a busy day. It is a reminder of the faithful volunteers who showed up week after week, prayed together, worked hard, and trusted God to multiply their efforts.

The faces may have changed, and the ministry may have grown, but the heart of the mission remains the same: serving people, sharing hope, and demonstrating God's love through practical acts of compassion.

Thank you to every volunteer—past and present—who has helped make that mission possible