Volunteer Spotlight: Creighton University Student Volunteers Serving with Heart

While many college students sleep in on Saturday mornings, Luke Tooley and a group of Creighton University Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity brothers are already at Heart Ministry Center, delivering food pantries to community members. A junior accounting major, Luke brings to life the university’s culture of service.

For Luke, “Dignity for All” is more than the Heart’s mission—it’s how he and his friends engage with pantry guests. “We’re there to serve, not to help,” he explains. “The people coming to the pantry are no different from us. The Fresh Starts and volunteers share the same goal: supporting the community.” This mindset keeps their work grounded in respect and shared humanity.

The ripple effect of Luke’s commitment is clear. Heart Ministry Center’s food distribution program—Nebraska’s largest pantry—provides over 300 food pantries each Saturday, adding up to millions of pounds of food annually. This effort is powered by thousands of volunteers who treat community members as equals. Luke’s group reflects this, showing up weekly to ensure families leave with more than groceries—they go with dignity.

Luke points to the Heart’s sense of community when asked what keeps him returning. “From the moment you walk in, you feel it—people caring for each other,” he says. His quiet dedication reflects how showing up week after week can create meaningful connections—both with fellow volunteers and the community members they serve.

The Heart Ministry Center thanks Luke and these Creighton Sig Ep volunteers for generously sharing their time and compassion.