A Thanksgiving That Gives Back: How Families Can Serve Together in North Carolina

Each November, families across the country gather to give thanks. Tables fill with laughter, food, and familiar traditions. But for hundreds of families in Western North Carolina, many still recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Helene, Thanksgiving looks a little different.

This year, Adventures Relief is inviting families to rediscover the heart of gratitude by spending Thanksgiving week serving together.

From November 22-28, 2025, families can join our long-term base in Black Mountain, North Carolina for a week of meaningful service, community connection, and Kingdom impact.

Why Serve This Thanksgiving

When disaster strikes, relief and recovery take time – often years. That’s why our Adventures Relief Base exists in Western North Carolina: to bring consistent presence and long-term hope to communities rebuilding their lives.

Over Thanksgiving week, volunteers will partner with Appalachian Community Relief and the Better Together Coalition for a multi-day outreach called the Thanksgiving Market, designed to bless 400 local families.

But this trip is more than an event, it’s an invitation to slow down, serve side by side, and make memories that matter.

What You’ll Do

Throughout the week, families will experience hands-on ministry and tangible impact opportunities:

  • Rebuilding Projects – Help repair homes and restore hope for families still recovering from Hurricane Helene.
  • Nursing Home Visits – Share encouragement, prayer, and companionship with elderly residents who may feel forgotten during the holidays.
  • Distribution Center Service – Volunteer at local centers to pack and deliver essential goods to families in need.

The Thanksgiving Market

On Sunday, November 23, volunteers will help host a joyful, community-wide outreach where families receive everything needed for a home-cooked meal, along with encouragement, prayer, and connection.

Why Families Love It

Serving together changes the way we see Thanksgiving. It turns gratitude into action and gives families shared experiences that shape faith and perspective for years to come.

“We came to give meals,” one past volunteer shared, “but left realizing we were the ones being filled with gratitude, joy, and perspective.”

Parents often describe this trip as the moment their kids truly understood the heart of service. It’s hands-on, relational, and deeply rewarding for every age.

Join the Adventures Relief Team

Dates: November 22-28, 2025
Location: Adventures Relief Base | Black Mountain, NC
Main Event: Thanksgiving Market – Sunday, November 23 | 12–5 PM
Prep & Cleanup: Saturday, November 22 (3–6 PM) | Monday, November 24 (9 AM–12 PM)
Cost: $350 per person (includes meals and lodging)
Who Can Come: Families, small groups, and individuals of all ages

How to Get Involved

Join the Team – Sign up your family to serve Thanksgiving week with Adventures Relief in North Carolina.

Give Toward Dignity and Diversity – Can’t travel? You can still make a difference by donating to help purchase culturally specific ingredients that honor the unique traditions of every family we serve.