SOUTH FORK — For more than 30 years the South Fork Kiwanis Club has hosted an annual Thanksgiving Day Dinner at the South Fork Community Center up until 2020 when the COVID pandemic caused it to come to a screeching halt. Two years later, the event is back and is expected to be better than ever.

According to South Fork Kiwanis Club President Karen Miller, the club has been working with the Rio Grande Hospital to prepare the meal that in the past served upward of 300 people on Thanksgiving Day. Though there have been some changes, Miller hopes that this year the dinner will make a full recovery.

“I have been doing this for over 30 years and each year presents some challenges. Our main challenge is getting enough people to help with the event. In the past it was very well received, and we hope to see that return but we really could use some help,” said Miller.

Due to the shortage of volunteers to help with the event, the club has opted to only prepare 20 turkeys for the event with the help of Rio Grande Hospital. “We can’t thank Rio Grande Hospital enough for their willingness to help cook for the meal. So many things have changed since the last time we held the event, it is nice to have the support that we do.”

This year will be a buffet-style dinner instead of the regularly served meal that has occurred in the past. One thing that hasn’t changed is the dedication, preparation, and work that goes into hosting this massive event.

“If anyone would like to help, please reach out. We can use all the help we can get,” said Miller.

The event features a traditional Thanksgiving dinner and dessert with all the fixings at the South Fork Community Center from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. There will also be an opportunity to provide warm clothing and canned goods for the coat and food drive that takes place every year. 

For more information or to volunteer for the event, contact Karen Miller at [email protected] or by calling 720-313-4834.