Our Love in Action Gala this year included a solemn pause to remember and honor the life and legacy of volunteer Dennis Wandera, who died tragically while serving others on a mission trip in Uganda.

Dennis believed deeply in human connection and in serving others.

That heart brought Dennis to Common Heart, where almost every Saturday morning he could be found serving at the pantry. For Dennis, it was about much more than food. He used those moments to build relationships, encourage others, and connect with his neighbors.

Dennis had a rare gift for making genuine connections. He welcomed new volunteers, neighbors arriving for food, and people bringing donations with the same warmth and attention. He remembered people and made a point to reconnect the next time he saw them.

His care often extended beyond the pantry – befriending a man experiencing homelessness and bringing him food each Saturday, then later serving as a Cupboard Ally for several neighbors. He was a leader and mentor, often simply through the way he showed up – with confidence, compassion, faith, and genuine interest in others.

Dennis was exuberant, outgoing, driven, and resilient. He believed deeply in the dignity and worth of every person. He loved to laugh and believed laughter helped build community – another way he naturally brought people together.

Dennis left a lasting footprint at Common Heart and far beyond it. His legacy lives in the relationships he built, the people he encouraged, and the simple but powerful way he stopped to connect.

Dennis, we miss you. We honor you – our friend, fellow volunteer, leader, and mentor – and we celebrate a life of faith, compassion, joy, and presence. A legacy of Love in Action.