Laguna Thanksgiving Outreach

The clouds parted, the sun came out and the Laguna Beach community banned together for the 21st annual Thankgiving day outreach.

What started over two decades ago as a small outreach has grown into a jammed pack event made up our colorful and diverse community.

So many familiar faces made the day an overwhelming success.

Traditionally held at Bluebird park but moved to the Neighborhood Congregational church due to the threat of showers, which didn’t seem to slow the estimated 500 plus people from coming out. In fact, “this logistically was probably the smoothest outreach we have had, with the kitchen and seating so close” said Mary LaRusso A.K.A. the “Turkey Lady.” LaRusso who was seemingly everywhere and pivotal in securing access to the church facility added “helping out at this event has really been a turning point in my life, to see everyone come together to serve.” LaRusso credited Alice Graves (who passed in 2001) for “setting a wonderful example that I try and follow each year, she really captured me with her compassion for the homeless.”

And the feast- There was wall to wall Turkeys cooked to perfection with white meat, dark and drumsticks that looked other worldly. All variety of mashed potatoes formed into mountainous peaks, succulent honey baked ham, fresh cranberries, silky gravy, hot fresh breads, home made pies, and so much more. It was a perfect model of supply and demand, with just enough to give care packs to all in need.

David Peck dubbed “El Jeffe” by his many helpers had a way of creating a harmony out of what first appeared to be chaos. He gracefully yet firmly directed all the resources, both food and people to there proper places. The end result was a masterpiece. When asked what inspired him to serve this cause David replied, “I love seeing the rich and the poor getting together, serving each other, laughing together and enjoying life.”

A happy recipient of the delicious meal was Jim, who had heard about the free meal from a friend down at Main Beach and decided to check it out. “I love Laguna Beach, there are truly nice people here and I’ve seen all 48 states as a former long haul truck driver. It’s my true opinion that Laguna Beach has the nicest people in the whole United States.” Jim added, “isn’t food that much better when your broke?” Needless to say Jim was very thankful and left with a big bag of food for the next week.

Boy Scout Master Mark Itenyre brought out Laguna Beach Troop 35 to pitch in and help out with the assistance of his son Brad. Brad who is a sophomore at Laguna Beach High School organized the effort and directed the 12 member crew with food prep and table set up. One of his troop members, 9 year old Cub Scout Salen Stuart said he wanted to take part “to help the homeless feel cared about.”

Another happy volunteer was Richard Leeavitt dubbed “the Carver” for his unwavering commitment to slicing up the big birds. “it was hot and heavy back there, but it couldn’t of come together any better. We were elbow to elbow, laughing and enjoying the moments to give back.” He added, “there’s nothing better than this or more fun.”

A local named “Jimmie” was flashing a huge ear to ear grin when asked how his day was going and said “It’s been a tough year but today is a good day. To know our community cares helps me get through the tough times.” Jimmie was later seen doing some serious damage on a pumpkin pie that he smothered in fresh whip cream. He had his friends laughing and feeling good.

The Laguna Beach Friendship shelter which helps homeless folks toward gaining self sufficiency led by Dawn Price and Mark Miller said they got all 30 plus residents together to brainstorm on what they could do to create a wonderful day for those in need. Said Dawn: “what we heard from the members of our program was this event is a opportunity to bring back the memories of the past when they would get together with loved ones and enjoy the time talking, eating and laughing together.” She added, “through this hopefully they form new lasting friendships and fond memories.” Mark who is Director of programs agreed and said, “This is a day when we can put aside any differences in life and reach out to one another and serve each other.”

As the festivities drew to a close it was clear to see the wonderful spirit of community is very much alive and well in our little seaside town of Laguna Beach.