Today was not an open space day for me. It was Thanksgiving meal day at the Senior Center, and since I was asked to help, that is where I spent the morning. The staff started arriving at 4 am to get the cooking going. By 9 am the volunteers were rolling in. It was a busy crew setting up tables, putting out decorations, and making the place feel welcoming. Nothing but smiles and people helping each other get ready for the 11:30 meal.
By 10 am the entire front side of the building was fully set, looking great. The back side was a hive of activity as the kitchen worked nonstop to prepare meals not only for the roughly 200 guests in the halls but also for all the Meals on Wheels deliveries that go out all over Chelmsford. The Friends of the Senior Center had purchased a mountain of pies so that everyone would end their meal with a top-quality fresh dessert. Turkey, stuffing, potatoes, greens, and all the classics. It was a feast, and it looked fantastic.
They asked for a five-dollar donation to help cover costs, but if you did not have it, that was completely fine. Around 10:30 people started to stream in to save seats or just speak with friends. The senior center had a coffee bar set up with coffee and tea to enjoy while waiting. There were numerous little groups chatting away until serving time.
Tables were called in random order. You went up and received your meal, and they had several people ready to carry trays for anyone who had mobility issues. The cost for that service was simply a smile. When you were finished, volunteers whisked your trays away so you could sit, relax, and enjoy friendship and community.
The entire event ran without a single issue. The food was excellent, and every person I talked to agreed. Nothing beats a well run event, except a well-run event that serves the community. Hats off to the staff of the Senior Center and especially the cooking staff, who never faltered, never blinked, and delivered outstanding service, warm smiles, and a perfect Thanksgiving meal.
Thanksgiving is about family, and many at the Senior Center are exactly that for each other. You could feel it in the room. This is another reason Chelmsford is a special place, filled with people who show up, look out for one another, and share moments like this together. And it certainly helps when the food is great.