BY NICOLE BOWMAN-LAYTON
Over 250 Chowan County residents were served through a community Thanksgiving dinner held Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025, at Edenton Baptist Church. The meal — made and served by volunteers — exemplified the true spirit of the season.
The Leadership Academy Community Dinner, hosted by the John A. Holmes High School Leadership Academy and Student Government Assocation, brought together volunteers, sponsors, and community members for a free Thanksgiving meal that served as more than just nourishment — it was a celebration of togetherness and gratitude.
Spearheaded by Denae Lassiter, with Edenton-Chowan Schools, the event ran from noon to 2:30 p.m., when the food ran out.
The work for the event started earlier in the week, as volunteers transformed Edenton Baptist Church’s fellowship hall into a welcoming space, with volunteers working side by side at two stations — one for take-out orders and another for dine-in visitors — to serve traditional Thanksgiving fare. Tables adorned with bright yellow tablecloths and autumn decorations created a festive atmosphere, while volunteers wearing blue gloves carefully plated meals for guests moving through the serving line.
The menu included turkey, ham, rice, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans with turkey, green bean casserole, macoroni and cheese, rolls, dessert and a drink.
Those who attended the event in person had the option of grabbing some non-perishable food items from a table with assorted donated, pre-packaged food.
Volunteers helped with everything from greeting guests to serving food and managing setup and cleanup. Edenton-Chowan Schools Superintendent Tammi Ward, Edenton native Susan Inglis, and Edenton Police Chief David LaFon were among those who helped deliver meals to shut-ins and others who were unable to attend, such as residents of Prime Time Nursing Home, and people at ECU Health Chowan Hospital and Chowan County Department of Social Services.
Pastor Koby Strawser of Edenton Baptist Church offered a blessing for the meal and the community it served.
The collaborative effort included contributions of prepared dishes, sides, desserts, and ingredients from community members.
Others helping make this event a success include the John A. Holmes’ Student Government Association, Apryl Privott and A-List, Lionel Bateman, Open Door Church, and JAHHS foods class.
The Leadership Academy Community Dinner demonstrated that Thanksgiving is not just about the meal on the table, but about the connections made and the community strengthened when neighbors come together.
