More Than a Meal

How one volunteer group is building relationships and shaping the next generation through Monday Meals

When Courtney Kraus, Director of Children and Student Ministries at First United Methodist Church Isle of Palms, first heard about Star Gospel Mission through a church connection, she didn’t expect it to become such a meaningful part of her life.

But everything shifted after one visit.

“I went for a tour and fell in love right away,” she said.

What started as curiosity quickly turned into commitment. After connecting with SGM’S Volunteer Coordinator, Courtney began looking for a way to involve her students. That idea took shape in something simple but powerful: Monday Meals.

Now, each week begins with preparation during Sunday night youth group and continues Monday after school. Students and parents cook together, learning not just how to serve, but how to care. They ask Guests what they enjoy, and over time, small details like hamburgers and fries have become meaningful ways to show that care.

But somewhere between the meals and the moments, something deeper began to happen.

“The best experiences are when we get to talk with the Mission Guests. The stories we hear and the life advice they give our youth is unmatched.”

Those conversations changed everything. What began as service became connection. Students started building real relationships, learning from the very people they came to serve.

For Courtney, that’s the heart of it.

It’s not just about showing up or checking a box. It’s about shaping the next generation to understand what it truly means to serve, to listen, and to see people fully. The kind of lesson that doesn’t come from a classroom, but from sitting across a table and sharing a meal.

What started small has grown beyond what she expected. More people from the church have stepped in, different age groups are getting involved, and support continues to expand in ways that feel organic and lasting.

And if there’s one thing she would tell someone who hasn’t experienced the Mission yet, it’s simple: “Come and see.”

Contact Mrs. Theresa Watters at theresa@stargospelmission.org to see how you can get involved today!