For the past 15 years, David Swenson has spent his Christmas at First United Methodist Church in Wausau.
"Enjoyed serving other people, enjoyed working in the church, and just sort of the thing I do every Christmas," said Volunteer David Swenson.
Every Christmas, he makes sure the holiday is special for people who don't have somewhere to go, he said that feeling hits close to home.
"My families are on both coasts, actually east coast and west coast," said Swenson.
So every holiday season, he's been ready to work.
"Basically I've done just about everything, from cutting up turkeys to deliveries to set up the days before, cleaning up the days after," said Swenson.
It's not just Swenson.
Organizers said this year, more than 100 volunteers are looking to lend a hand.
"They'll be peeling pounds and pounds of potatoes, they'll be fixing cranberries, fruit salad," said Organizer Chris McNutt.
The dinner at the church will have all of the trimmings. Volunteers will also be delivering more than 200 meals to area homes.
"I think it's just that Christmas spirit is there, to want to help other people," said McNutt.
Swenson said the reactions they see every year is one of the many reasons he keeps coming back.
"It's a lot of prep work, but it's a lot of satisfaction when you get done," said McNutt.
A holiday tradition that has not only changed his life, but one he hopes will change the lives of others each year.
