Indianapolis, November 28, 2025
The Mozel Sanders Foundation served over 10,000 hot meals to Indianapolis residents this Thanksgiving Day, showcasing a tradition of community support that has grown from 20 meals in 1971. This event brought together over 1,300 volunteers and various community partners to ensure that no one in need was turned away. The foundation, committed to combating hunger and empowering youth, continues to play a vital role in the Indianapolis community with its year-round programs.
Indianapolis, IN – Mozel Sanders Foundation Serves Over 10,000 Thanksgiving Meals
A Heartwarming Tradition of Community Support
Indianapolis, IN – The Mozel Sanders Foundation has upheld its dedication to community well-being by serving over 10,000 hot meals to Indianapolis residents this Thanksgiving Day. Since its inception in 1971, this remarkable initiative has evolved from a modest 20 meals to a robust outreach program, benefiting thousands of families throughout the city.
This Thanksgiving event exemplifies the power of local collaboration and volunteerism, evidenced by partnerships between educational institutions, businesses, and passionate individuals who are coming together to cultivate a strong sense of community engagement. Through minimized bureaucratic hurdles, local leaders can mobilize resources more effectively, allowing for initiatives like this one to flourish and meet the needs of residents across the city.
Community Collaboration and Meal Preparation
In a commendable display of partnership, the Mozel Sanders Foundation collaborated with Ivy Tech Community College, Fishbeck, and Kroger, utilizing the facilities of Ivy Tech’s Conference Center & Culinary Institute for meal preparation and distribution. This year, volunteers included families such as Jacqueline Nelson and her grandchildren, illustrating the spirit of community support and family involvement in local initiatives. The menu offered traditional holiday fare, such as turkey-flavored chicken, green beans, mashed potatoes, and apple cobbler, ensuring that cherished culinary traditions were upheld.
Volunteer Participation and Satellite Locations
The event mobilized over 1,300 volunteers, who contributed their time and energy beginning as early as 5:00 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day. Meals were distributed at 20 satellite locations throughout Indianapolis, including several churches such as Tabernacle Presbyterian Church, Friendship Baptist Church, and Roberts Park United Methodist Church. These sites welcomed individuals on a first-come, first-served basis, guaranteeing that all in need received a hot meal without turning anyone away.
Foundation’s Mission and Legacy
Founded by the late Rev. Dr. Mozel Sanders, the Mozel Sanders Foundation emphasizes its mission to provide hope to the hungry and empower youth. Beyond the Thanksgiving initiative, the organization is committed to year-round efforts, offering services that include monthly food and supply distributions, scholarships, and youth empowerment programs. The foundation’s motto, “Don’t look down on a man unless you’re trying to pick him up,” underscores its dedication to uplifting the community through tangible support and outreach.
Community Partnerships and Support
Financial Center First Credit Union has been a longstanding ally of the Mozel Sanders Foundation, contributing $6,000 to bolster Thanksgiving Day efforts. This partnership reflects the broader community’s commitment to tackling food insecurity, exemplifying how local businesses can play an integral role in supporting essential services during the holiday season.
Looking Ahead
The Mozel Sanders Foundation shows no signs of slowing down, as it continues to expand its reach and serve even more families in the coming years. With the unwavering dedication of volunteers, community partners, and generous donors, the foundation remains a crucial support system for Indianapolis residents during Thanksgiving and throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Mozel Sanders Foundation?
The Mozel Sanders Foundation is an Indianapolis-based non-profit organization dedicated to providing hope to the hungry and empowering youth. Founded by the late Rev. Dr. Mozel Sanders, the foundation offers year-round services, including monthly food and supply distributions, scholarships, and youth empowerment programs.
How many meals did the foundation serve on Thanksgiving Day?
On Thanksgiving Day, the Mozel Sanders Foundation served over 10,000 hot meals to Indianapolis residents, continuing its tradition of community support.
Who were the main partners involved in this year’s Thanksgiving meal preparation?
This year, the foundation partnered with Ivy Tech Community College, Fishbeck, and Kroger to prepare and distribute meals from Ivy Tech’s Conference Center & Culinary Institute.
How can I get involved with the Mozel Sanders Foundation?
Individuals interested in volunteering or donating can visit the Mozel Sanders Foundation’s official website for more information on how to contribute to their mission.
What is the foundation’s mission?
The foundation’s mission is to provide hope to the hungry and empower youth, with a motto that reflects its commitment to uplifting the community: “Don’t look down on a man unless you’re trying to pick him up.”
Key Features of the Mozel Sanders Foundation Thanksgiving Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Number of Meals Served | Over 10,000 hot meals distributed to Indianapolis residents on Thanksgiving Day. |
| Volunteer Participation | Over 1,300 volunteers contributed to meal preparation and distribution. |
| Satellite Locations | Meals were distributed at 20 satellite locations across Indianapolis, including churches like Tabernacle Presbyterian Church, Friendship Baptist Church, and Roberts Park United Methodist Church. |
| Community Partnerships | Collaborations with organizations such as Ivy Tech Community College, Fishbeck, Kroger, and Financial Center First Credit Union supported the event. |
| Foundation’s Mission | The foundation aims to provide hope to the hungry and empower youth, offering year-round services like food distributions, scholarships, and youth empowerment programs. |
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
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