Love INC is gearing up for its second annual community Thanksgiving dinner at St. John’s Lutheran Church next week. The event, sponsored by area churches and local businesses, is free and open to the public.

Doug Peterson, executive director of the non-profit Love INC, said that last year’s event was successful enough to convince them to do it again this year. “Everybody really enjoyed it,” he said.

Peterson is anticipating an increased need for the dinner this year in light of a poor economy. “Last year we had 125 guests,” he said. “We’re prepared for twice as many this year.”

Some 130 volunteers are already on board to assist. “We’re filled up with volunteers,” he said.

This year, they’re also more prepared to offer a friendly ear for those who seek it. “Last year, we found there were people who needed to just talk,” said Peterson. “We’ll be ready to talk, pray and offer resources.”