BLAIR, NEBRASKA (2024 November 19, Tuesday)
Don Harrold, Writer / Editor
blairtoday@mail.com – Facebook
Blair’s Community Thanksgiving Dinner, entering its 14th year, plans to serve more meals than ever before at St. Francis Borgia Church. Last year’s dinner provided 776 meals, but coordinator JoAnne Jones says they’re aiming higher: “Jamie has a dream of serving 1000 meals.”
The tradition, started by Jamie and Janell Anderson, has found a dedicated steward in Jones, now in her third year coordinating. “I have always been a volunteer in the community,” Jones says. “I think we build strong communities by working together and building connections. When they were looking for someone to take over the Thanksgiving Dinner, I thought that is a great event and I want to make sure it continues.”
While rising food costs challenge many community events, local support remains strong. “The community does a great job supporting this event. So many people have stepped up to donate to make sure this event happens,” Jones notes. “We would like to thank everyone that has donated items especially with the increase in food prices.”
The dinner’s success relies on broad community partnerships. “This event is sponsored by the Ministerial Association. They send out the flyers and signup links to all the churches in Washington County to promote this event and get donations and volunteers. All the churches really come together to make this event happen,” Jones explains. She adds that local businesses play crucial roles: “PFI donates the printing of the flyers and Family Fare donates bags used for takeout. Rotella Bakery has donated the rolls every year.”
Youth organizations contribute significantly: “The Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts come on Monday evening to help setup tables and chairs and wrap silverware. They also color cards to be included in the delivery orders.”
The dinner’s delivery service, overseen by Wendy Rand, provides a crucial connection for homebound residents. Jones shares that “They are very appreciative. We receive thank you notes from many of them expressing their gratitude. For many, they might not get a Thanksgiving meal without this dinner. They also appreciate visiting with the delivery people.”
Organization starts months ahead: “Planning begins in late August,” Jones explains. “This event has a 14 year history. Over those years, a timeline has been established on what needs to be done when. We keep to that timeline to make sure everything gets taken care of.”
The operation’s precision comes from years of experience: “Having held this event for 14 years, the recipes have been defined by roaster. From there, we plan for how many roasters we think we will need.”
Currently, several volunteer positions need filling. “We are still in need of turkey carvers on Wednesday evening,” Jones states. “There are shifts open in many different areas on Thursday. We need several delivery drivers, takeout servers and dining room help. We encourage people to go to the signup and find a job at a time that is convenient for them.”
Long-term volunteers keep returning year after year. “The Anderson family and the Rand family have been involved from the beginning,” Jones notes. “It is such a positive event and people are so appreciative that it feels good to be involved in it.”
The dinner welcomes everyone, regardless of circumstances. “We want the community to come together for this event. We don’t want to put limits or restrictions on who can attend,” Jones emphasizes. “Many people look forward to attending this event every year. It has become a tradition for them and their families.”
Those wanting to help should focus on key needs: “Donations of cooked turkeys and pies are the most needed items,” Jones says. “There are many volunteer shifts available on Thursday especially those starting at noon. There is always a need for people to help with the cleanup.”
