Our History

The Community Thanksgiving Dinner in Topeka, Kansas is the longest running standalone community Thanksgiving Dinner served on Thanksgiving day each year. Having started in 1968, we aim to continue providing this wonderful service to our community for years to come.

Our Mission

The Community Thanksgiving Dinner Foundation strives to provide a warm and inviting meal for the Thanksgiving holiday to the community and surrounding area so no one need dine alone.

Years of serving

Meals Delivered

Meals Served

In the News

Thanksgiving dinner is a time to come together

Considered one of the largest and longest-running community Thanksgiving dinners in the nation, the meal traces its roots to 1968, when Myron Johnson’s mother, Pauline, and the late Addie Spicher founded the dinner at the former East Topeka United Methodist Church.

Full Article

Topeka Community Thanksgiving Dinner set for 51st year

Pauline Johnson, who founded the program with the late Addie Spicher at the former East Topeka United Methodist Church, stepped down from her leadership position about two decades ago, though she remained involved in the dinner through its 50th year in 2017.

Full Article

Looking for ways to help out?

We would love to hear from you.

The Community Thanksgiving Dinner wouldn't have lasted as long as it did without the generosity of kind souls in Topeka and throughout Northeast Kansas. Whether you'd like to volunteer with us on Thanksgiving Day or donate in other ways, we'd love to have your help!

Donation Info

Volunteer Info