Preparing to Feed Families This Thanksgiving: A Heartwarming Effort

As Thanksgiving approaches, it's not just about turkey and pumpkin pie—it's about coming together as a community to make sure every family has a meal to share. This year, our Peer Leaders truly gobbled up the opportunity to assist in making Thanksgiving a little brighter for those in need. They were eager to roll up their sleeves and contribute to the preparation, packing, and distribution of Thanksgiving dinner boxes.

Under the leadership of Hope Franklin, the Peer Leaders were hard at work both in person and behind the scenes via Google Chat, ensuring that everyone was on the same page. Their collaborative spirit was key to making sure the entire distribution process went smoothly, allowing us to serve many families in our community.

Hope, the chairperson for this event, carefully handpicked her team, emphasizing the importance of including several 10th graders. She didn’t just focus on their strength and brawn for packing but also on their future leadership. By involving them in the planning stages, she is ensuring that the next generation of Peer Leaders will be ready to carry the turkey boxes with confidence for years to come.

Hope also involved two shops: Restaurant Trades made homemade pies and Commercial Art created the labels for the pie boxes. Talk about teamwork!

Victory Church played a pivotal role by supplying us with turkeys and non-perishable food items, ensuring that every family would have what they need to prepare their holiday meal. Additionally, our very own alumni, Nick Neupauer, came through with his annual donation, which allowed us to purchase perishables and some last-minute extras, making each box even more complete.

A special shout-out goes to 10th grader Landon Comedy, who created a touching version of the Lord’s Prayer, included in each bag. His thoughtful gesture adds a personal touch to the meals, reminding each family of the spirit of gratitude and community. Also, 11th grader Samantha McKnight crafted a beautiful cookbook, offering tips and recipes to make Thanksgiving dinner even more delicious for those receiving the boxes.

As Victory Church delivered the turkeys, our hardworking students helped carry the heavy birds into our freezer for storage until they are ready for pickup. Pastor Fred, along with his team, was impressed with our students' dedication and remarked on the great work they’re doing in the community.

On Wednesday afternoon, the Peer Leaders wrapped up their preparation with joyful hearts, setting the stage for the next phase—packing the Thanksgiving boxes. The students worked in harmony, knowing that each box packed would soon be in the hands of a family who needed it.

On Thursday and Friday, the Peer Leaders will continue their efforts, working in shifts to help distribute the meals. They’ll be assisting families as they pick up their Thanksgiving dinners and helping carry the bags to their cars, ensuring that everyone is ready for a festive and fulfilling holiday.

A heartfelt thank you to all involved—Hope, the Peer Leaders, Victory Church, Nick Neupauer, and everyone who has contributed in any way. This Thanksgiving, thanks to your efforts, these students have learned firsthand the joy of giving back and the impact of providing for others. It's a beautiful reminder of the true meaning of the holiday: community, gratitude, and service.

Happy Thanksgiving to all!