Each year, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Fresno County prepares Thanksgiving dinners on various days before the holiday. These dinners are made possible by volunteer community members affiliated with the clubs. It's a heartwarming tradition that brings families together and spreads the joy of Thanksgiving.

"Feeding Families with Thanksgiving Love"

Volunteer Community Effort

Local businesses like NF Davis and Dayka & Hackett, along with nationally recognized companies like Navia, US Bank, and The Gap, come together to volunteer and provide the meals. This shows the power of community collaboration in making a difference during the holiday season. It's not just about the food; it's about the connections and memories that are made.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Fresno County President and CEO Diane Carbray emphasizes the significance of this event. She says it's one of the few times when kids and families are in the club at the same time, allowing them to see the fun their children have and feel the care from the organization.

Director of Community Relations & Special Events Sandra Dee Chaney adds that the donors and volunteer cooks have been a part of this tradition for many years, creating great connections with families. It's a beautiful sight to witness.

Activities and Cultural Experiences

The Thanksgiving events not only offer delicious food but also feature activities for both kids and their parents. This gives them an opportunity to bond and experience unfamiliar cultural traditions.

For example, Carbray recalls a kid from Orange Cove who had never had a Thanksgiving meal until coming to the Boys & Girls Club. It's a fun learning opportunity for everyone, showing the importance of cultural diversity.

During this season, the clubs aim to serve more than 1,000 children and their parents. Even smaller clubs like the one in Clovis expect around 100 children and their families. And children and their families can take home leftovers, which is a great help for families in need.

Busy Holiday Season Ahead

The Thanksgiving holiday meal kicks off a busy season for the club, with Christmas and other holiday programs just around the corner.

The clubs' upcoming programs include "Adopt a Family," where local families can support children by providing gifts. They also work with Toys for Tots and organizations like Old Navy, The Gap, and Banana Republic to provide gifts for teen clients.

These efforts show the comprehensive support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Fresno County provides throughout the holiday season, ensuring that every child feels loved and cared for.

The Thanksgiving dinners will take place at eight club locations throughout Fresno County. Carbray hopes this annual tradition helps foster a sense of comfort between parents and guardians and the organization, making it a great time for all involved.