The Harvest Youth Board will host its annual W. Dan Prince III Thanksgiving Eve Dinner on Wednesday, Nov. 26 from 1–4 p.m. at Martinsville High School.
This free, traditional Thanksgiving meal will be available for dine-in, carryout, and delivery. Martinsville and Henry County community members wishing to request delivery should call (276) 800-1465 by Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025. No reservations are needed for dine-in or carryout meals. This year’s menu features a classic Thanksgiving spread — turkey, stuffing, green beans, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn, bread, and a cookie.
The Harvest Youth Board is continuing the long-standing tradition of the event while also reflecting the board’s commitment to youth literacy by incorporating a free book giveaway. Families with children under 12 will receive the board’s selected title for this year, How to Catch a Turkey by Adam Wallace.
In 2024, the Harvest Youth Board served nearly 4,000 meals, an increase from the 3,400 meals served in 2023. More than 240 volunteers participated last year, and over 375 books were distributed to children under 12. This annual event continues to unite the Martinsville-Henry County community through service and shared gratitude.
This year, the board has introduced the slogan “Give Before You Gather” to emphasize the importance of giving back before sitting down to your own Thanksgiving meal. The message reinforces that the true spirit of the holiday is found in generosity and community care. Volunteers play a vital role in ensuring the dinner’s success, assisting with greeting, cooking, serving, packing, and delivering meals.
There is a significant need for delivery drivers to help bring meals to families across the community. Delivery drivers must be 18 or older and possess a valid driver’s license. Delivering in pairs or groups is encouraged. Those interested may register at www.harvestyouthboard.org, though walk-in volunteers are also welcome on the day of the event.
Dylan Spencer, the Harvest Youth Board Vice Chair and Special Events Committee Chair, shared how important volunteers are in making the dinner possible: “Volunteers are essential to the success of this event. We could not serve as many meals as we do if we didn’t have dedicated volunteers. Everyone who shows up is valuable and we appreciate any help we receive. There is nothing better than helping out our community and I hope everyone comes to give before you gather.”
Maddie Crowe, Chair of the Harvest Youth Board, reflected on the personal significance of the annual dinner, saying, “Seeing the happiness and gratitude of each individual that walks through the doors, makes this experience very memorable and something I will always cherish”.
Harvest Youth Board member Caesar Draper emphasized the event’s heart and purpose: “This event reminds us that the heart of the holidays is found in unity, kindness, and the power of community.”
To learn more about the Harvest Youth Board, visit https://www.harvestyouthboard.org.
