The Bischoff family of Kirtland truly embraced the spirit of Thanksgiving this year. Alex and Kara Bischoff came to the free community dinner at the West End YMCA in 2023 and were so inspired not only by the warm atmosphere and delicious food, but by all the volunteers giving their time – presumably taking them away from family for a portion of the holiday – that they decided to volunteer as servers themselves this time. And they brought their three children with them to give back to the community as a family. “Last year we came to eat and we were so impressed to see kids volunteering and serving so this year we wanted to give back and give our kids the opportunity to do so as well,” Kara said. McKenna Bischoff, 10, volunteered as a server along with her brother and sister and parents for the free Thanksgiving dinner at the West End YMCA in Willoughby on Nov. 28. (William Tilton – News-Herald) The Bischoff children served rolls to diners seated at tables for the dinner at the Willoughby Senior Center on Nov. 28, from noon to 2 p.m. This event is made possible by the YMCA’s Christian Emphasis Committee, donors and the Willoughby Senior Center. According to a news release, together, they aim to ensure no one spends the holiday alone, offering a space where individuals and families can come together to share in the spirit of Thanksgiving. “At the Y, we believe in building stronger communities, and what better way to do that than by gathering around a table to share a meal,” said Kevin Sraj, Branch Executive director at the West End YMCA in Willoughby. “This dinner is for everyone —whether you’re coming alone or bringing your entire family, we’ll have a place for you.” YMCA Executive Director Dick Bennett, left, chats with volunteers at the free Thanksgiving dinner at the West End YMCA in Willoughby on Nov. 28. (William Tilton -The News-Herald) The menu included classic Thanksgiving favorites, all served buffet style by a host of volunteers. The YMCA’s Christian Emphasis Committee, rooted in the Y’s mission to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit mind, and body for all, spearheaded the effort to make this event a reality. The Willoughby Senior Center’s support has provided the ideal venue to host this community-focused celebration, according to the release. “This is about more than just food — it’s about connection,” said Sue Dietrich, Associate Director of the YMCA . The Lake County YMCA is a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. With a focus on nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving health and well-being, and providing opportunities to give back and support our neighbors, the YMCA enables youth, adults, families, and communities to be healthy, confident, connected and secure. Executive Director Dick Bennett called the event “redeeming” and said one of the things the YMCA focuses on is strengthening the foundation of the community, which the Thanksgiving dinner certainly accomplishes for both diners and volunteers. “It is a more personable experience to be at a table and around other people on the holiday for those that might not have that opportunity elsewhere and it can serve as a health benefit both mentally and spiritually,” Bennett said. “Since the pandemic, I think we have focused on eliminating isolation and promoting togetherness. I think we could all use a little more together and a little less division.”