Volunteering opportunities on Thanksgiving?

All,

For the first time in 10 years, it looks like we will be in Louisville much of T-day ( heading to Tennessee late afternoon Thursday). My family would like to volunteer to help serve food somewhere so others can enjoy their Thanksgiving with family; I also think it would be a great experience for my family. Both Brian and I can cook too if needed. Anybody have suggestions on who's looking for workers? Only caveat is that it need to be family- friendly for our 6 year old and 17 year old. I'm hoping for a place that'd be low-key enough that they'd welcome our six year-old's help setting the table, etc- not view him as getting underfoot.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions,

Deb

Thanks, Annemarie! I already sent inquiries to Wayside and St. Vincent de Paul.

Anybody have any other suggestions?

Deb

[Robin Garr]

Anybody have any other suggestions?

This isn't meant to be negative, Deb, but just a thought: These agencies get lots of volunteers on Thanksgiving and during the Christmas season, but they're often crying for volunteers the rest of the year. Maybe volunteer now, but if you enjoy the experience, consider a family commitment to do it again in February?

Also, if you're looking for a smaller, lower-profile soup kitchen, consider checking with Dare To Care and Kentucky Harvest for a reference to an organization that doesn't get so much help?

[Robin Garr]

Speaking of smaller groups, the St. George's Community Center at 26th and Oak Street has some kind of food distribution twice weekly, according to the Episcopal Diocese of Kentucky Website. They're a great organization. I don't know if this is hot lunch or grocery distribution, but you could give them a call direct if you want to bypass the bureaucracy.

St. George's Community Center
Serving food to the needy on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am-2pm
Call 776-9300 For more information

Point heard and well-made. Great ideas, Robin! Thanks.

Dear Deb,
try the Volunteer Connection. When I volunteered on the Crisis/Info line, there were several nursing homes that would be thrilled to have your family's company to interact w/ residents. Also, St Joseph's may still need help.
If you call the info line, 589 4313 or 800-221-0446 they can put you in the right direction.
Hope this helps.
Cheers!