Since its infancy five years ago, Aiken's One Table Thanksgiving dinner has drawn thousands of men, women and children from throughout the community downtown for the unique event.
For the 2009 event, organizers are gearing up a crowd of 2,500.
The event has grown by several hundred people every year, said Kathryn Wade, volunteer organizer.
What began as an idea to bring the community together in 2005 has blossomed into an annual event.
The plan unfolded in 2005, just a few weeks before the holiday, and by Thanksgiving Day, more than 1,000 diners had gathered.
By last year, that number had more than doubled. An estimated 2,200 patrons joined in the celebration in 2008.
"This is an opportunity to come together as a community to celebrate Thanksgiving," Wade said. "For those who volunteer, it is a wonderful way to serve the people in this community."
Wade said organizers are still seeking donations.
Checks can be made payable to: Christ Central Missions Division, 267 Laurens St. S.W., Aiken, S.C. 29801.
Donors should specify "One Table."
The event will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 26, in The Alley, behind the Aiken Municipal Building. The dinner is free.
In the event of rain, tables will be set up in the Aiken Municipal Building.
Contact Karen Daily at kdaily@aikenstandard.com.
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Comment Title: Thanksgiving One Table
Your article states that "volunteers and funds are needed" and the article supplies the info to donate via check - but what if someone wishes to volunteer their time to help - who/what would the contact person/number be? Shouldn't that also have been indicated in the article ?!!?
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