LAKE NORMAN OF CATAWBA, N.C. — Celia and Webster James have been part of the Kiwanis Club for seven years.
"Your Thanksgiving experience will be different," Celia James said. "Because you have been a part of making someone else’s Thanksgiving so much better."
The couple is just two of the about 100 volunteers that work together, to put food on the table for those in need.
"Truly, a momentous occasion," Webster James added.
But for them, it’s not just about giving back.
"It’s also an opportunity for young people to learn accountability and leadership," Webster James said.
That's as high school Key Club members partner with the Kiwanis Club for this year's Thanksgiving Dinner Project once again.
"It’s a frozen turkey, anywhere between 12 and 14 pounds, homemade pie," Jeff Hammett said.
Hammett has been a part of Lake Norman’s Kiwanis Club a little bit longer than Celia and Webster James — nearly two decades.
For eight of those 18 years he’s taken over the Thanksgiving Dinner Project, raising the number of families served by about 50 each year. The growing service is a growing challenge, not limited to the amount of homes the club reaches.
"Roughly $45 this year," Hammett said regarding the price of each box. "When I started this project eight years ago, $20 would feed the same family."
What does help, though, is the growing number of volunteers.
"Not only our club but our Key Club members and other members of the community coming out," Sam Tonner, Lake Norman's Kiwanis Club president, said. "I’m getting goosebumps right now just thinking about it."
Tonner added hours of work goes into pulling the holiday charity off -- last year, the nonprofit packed and delivered 365 meals.
This year, the goal is 400.
Despite the big numbers, the goal is little smaller for Celia and Webster James.
"Being able to help one family at a time... is really something special," Webster James said with a smile.
As for what’s next for the Thanksgiving Dinner Project, they’re holding a fundraiser this weekend at D9 Brewing from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Between several vendors and live music, leaders said any and all donations are welcome, and they hope to see you there.
Contact Kia Murray at kmurray@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.