On Thanksgiving Day in 1999, a group gathered in Powell with a simple aim: That those who might otherwise be alone could enjoy warm fellowship and a Thanksgiving meal.

The Community Thanksgiving Dinner soon became an annual tradition in Powell that continued to grow, serving around 600 people last year.

As the dinner marks its 20th year next week, “we are making plans to serve 700 people,” said Pastor Doug Siggins with Trinity Bible Church, which is organizing this year’s dinner.

“We hope that tradition continues and many people from the community still enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal, warm fellowship, and hopefully some encouraging discussions about all we have to give thanks for,” Siggins said.

The Community Thanksgiving Dinner will be served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day at the Park County Fairgrounds’ Heart Mountain Center. The free meal — featuring turkey with gravy, cranberries, mashed potatoes, assorted salads, bread, side dishes and pie — is open to everyone.

Over the years, local churches have partnered together to ensure the tradition continues in Powell.

“Giving thanks is such an important part of living to the glory of God and this meal has allowed this time of thanksgiving to be shared with others,” Siggins said. “Gratefulness seems to encourage generosity.”

Since the meal is provided free of charge, any monetary donations will be given to a local charity chosen by the Powell Ministerial Association.

Volunteers will deliver meals to homebound neighbors on Thanksgiving, but “we would much rather pick people up and give them a ride to the fairgrounds if they are able,” Siggins said.

“... The intent has always been more than just providing something to eat,” he said. “Sharing in the fellowship around the meal is really more important than just providing food.”

Siggins said Frank and Susan Roth have done a “tremendous job” coordinating this year’s meal and volunteers. 

“They have a pretty good team put together but if others would like to serve, we will find a place for them,” he said.

One way people can help is by coming and talking with folks who might not have family to spend the day with, Siggins said.

“Often people feel like they can’t come and eat if they don’t volunteer. That just isn’t the case,” he said. “We need volunteers for sure, but our main desire is to provide fellowship. The meal is the means to that end.”

In addition to Thursday’s meal, there will be a short Community Thanksgiving Worship Service on Wednesday evening beginning at 6 p.m. at the fairgrounds. The hope is to encourage volunteers and others from the community as they prepare for Thanksgiving Day. Brian Onstead, Trinity Bible Church’s new pastor, will give a short message.

Trinity is honored to serve the community as the host church this year, Siggins said. 

“Our prayer is that the love shown us in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ would be on display as we seek to love our neighbors well,” he said. “We indeed have much to be thankful for.”

To request a ride or a meal, contact the Roths at 307-254-0363.