Goodwill, Sharonville Convention Center and Spectra Food Services Host 17th Annual Homeless Awareness Dinner!

Helping to share the holiday spirit in a very special way, the 17th annual ” Homeless Awareness Dinner ” was held at the Sharonville Convention Center on the evening of Tuesday, December 11th. The annual dinner brings together individuals and families at the center for a wonderful dinner and special activities serving more than 300 guests. The Sharonville Convention Center and Spectra Food Services organize this extra special evening which includes many volunteers from the staff of the two organizations.

The event offers a wonderful meal, a DJ spinning tunes, and an extra special visit from Santa for children participating in the event. Ohio Valley Goodwill was once again pleased to be a part of this annual evening held in support of individuals and families faced with the challenge of homelessness. Transportation to the Sharonville Convention Center for participants was coordinated by Goodwill’s Special Projects team which helped to bring individuals and families to the center. Busses were provided by Queen City Transportation and helped individuals from nine local homeless shelters to attend this special event.

A special part of this wonderful evening is always the many volunteers who help to serve the dinner and make participants feel welcome for the holiday celebration and join in the festivities. Volunteers include individuals from both the Sharonville Convention Center and Spectra Food Services. Many of the volunteers include the families of staff from both companies. Several volunteers have been participating in this extra-special event for many years. One of the highlights of this year’s party, was the fun craft table where kids could design their own stockings. More than 50 of this year’s holiday guests were children under the age of 16.  The  attendees currently receive support from the following organizations including: Salvation Army, YWCA, Anna Louise Inn, Hatton Center, Parkway Center, Volunteers of America, Bethany House, Tender Mercies and Joseph House.  Ohio Valley Goodwill is especially thankful that Santa (aka Phil Born from Goodwill’s Veterans Services)was able to be part of the event this year.

Ohio Valley Goodwill is grateful to the Sharonville Convention Center, Spectra Food Services, and all of the many partners who assist with this annual evening to support individuals and families facing the challenge of homelessness. To find out more about Ohio Valley Goodwill’s programs and services for individuals challenged with homelessness, please visit our website at www.cincinnatigoodwill.org/services.