2nd Annual FriendsGiving Nov. 23
This Sunday, November 23, the Christian Education Board of First Baptist Church in Cambridge will be presenting its second annual Friendsgiving Dinner, a special event for youth in grades 6 to 12. This free event is open to all young people in the area. It’s an opportunity to make new friends, eat great food, and connect with members of the community, young and old alike. Church attendance or membership is not required.
“Everyone is welcome,” said event organizer Taylor Morris.
The Friendsgiving meal will feature all the components of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, with a personal touch - the youth attending the dinner are encouraged to bring a side dish. Parents are also welcome to attend and help with the meal preparation and activities.
“Last year, we bobbed for apples,” said Morris. This year, Morris has a cache of donated pumpkins and is planning some unique activities and art projects with the pumpkins.
The purpose of Friendsgiving is to provide a supportive environment for local youth who will benefit from the encouraging atmosphere as the holiday season kicks off. Morris, a young mother, wanted to establish the Friendsgiving tradition as a way for young people to feel supported and give them great memories to look back upon.
An important goal of Friendsgiving is to give area youth an opportunity to connect with others in the community and build meaningful relationships.
“We want to get to know these kids,” said Morris. “We want to support them.”
Friendsgiving is part of the Youth Rally series of monthly events for local youth, presented by the Christian Education Board of First Baptist Church. Even though Morris’ own three children are too young to participate, she is laying the groundwork for her children and for other children in the community.
“I want to establish these things here,” she explained, “not just for the future benefit of my children but for all the children growing up here.”
Friendsgiving is festive and fun.
“We decorate the table and go all out for decorations,” said Morris. “We try to make this one extra special for them.”
Morris, is asking that anyone who wishes to attend RSVP by calling or texting. But nobody will be turned away, even if they arrive the day of the event.
“Bare minimum is just to show up,” said Morris. “Everyone is welcome whether you RSVP or not.”
Friendsgiving takes place at 6 p.m. on Sunday, November 23 at First Baptist Church of Cambridge, located at 170 West Hopper Street, Cambridge. To RSVP or for more information, call or text: 208-566-4920 or 208-789-7548.
