What does Thanksgiving mean to your family? For some, it’s all about the food; for others, it’s gathering with loved ones or giving back to the community. In our family, we make it a tradition to share what we’re most grateful for around the dinner table. Last year, our young granddaughter touched our hearts when she said how much she was grateful for always being included in family dinner outings and vacations with me and Phil. As the kids grow older and time together becomes more precious, it was especially meaningful to hear her gratitude. With that spirit in mind, we asked several DC Ranch residents to share their favorite Thanksgiving recipes and traditions. Here’s a sampling:

With roots in Russia and Ukraine, Marina and Leo’s family celebrates Thanksgiving with a flavorful mix of traditions, serving favorites like Olivier salad, deviled eggs, and Ukrainian beet salad alongside the holiday meal. To add even more fun, Marina’s sister-in-law Olena brings out the Mentimeter app for a round of trivia on Thanksgiving and U.S. history. “Everyone joins in from their phones, and the answers pop up live on the TV screen. It’s simple to set up and always gets competitive—we all race to see who can answer the fastest!”

When our family is in town for Thanksgiving, we have the honor of joining our friend, NFL Hall of Famer Nick Lowery, at his Champions for the Homeless event at the St. Vincent de Paul homeless shelter. Organized through Nick’s non-profit foundation, this inspiring initiative has provided more than 100,000 meals over the past 19 years.

It’s been a privilege to stand alongside others in service—offering meals, gift cards, clothing, and compassion to those experiencing homelessness in the Phoenix community. 

Each year, as we gather to share stories and smiles, we are reminded of the true spirit of the holiday: coming together in unity.  We’re deeply grateful for this tradition, which has become a meaningful blessing in our lives, allowing us to spread a message of hope, dignity, and acceptance.