Thanksgiving in Beckley 2004

Mountain State Centers for Independent Living staff and consumers in Beckley celebrated the Thanksgiving holiday in style with fun, great food and fellowship. Staff and consumers worked together to prepare a delicious Thanksgiving dinner on November 23, 2004.

Staff and consumers meet early in November to plan a menu of foods to prepare and food items to purchase to prepare the meal. The menu included turkey, ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, sweet potato casserole, potato salad, macaroni salad, dressing and a variety of desserts and beverages. On November 17, 2004, staff and consumers went grocery shopping to purchase the items needed to prepare the meal. While shopping, we compared prices and the quality of food items to get the best buy for our money.

On the morning of November 23 everyone was eager to begin cooking some of their favorite foods. Staff and consumers were busy with their assignments including setting up tables, chairs, place settings and food preparation in the kitchen. For some, it was the first time they had ever prepared a meal.

Within the hour, the heavenly smells of turkey, dressing and ham permeated the Beckley office. Somebody suggested we should share the bountiful meal and the people from the so the Beckley Mental Health Consumer Association office next door were invited to share our meal. Dinner was served to 14 individuals. Everyone had more than enough to eat and had the opportunity to meet new people and socialize.

Following a wonderful meal, consumers cleared the tables, washed and cleaned up the kitchen. We were all tired after a long day but everyone agreed the meal was a big success and they had enjoyed learning what is required to prepare a large dinner.

We are all looking forward to a even bigger and better Thanksgiving celebration in 2006.

See more photos of this thanksgiving feast.