The OUR Center in Longmont celebrated Thanksgiving with a warm, welcoming meal for the community.
For many attendees, the event provided not just food but a sense of connection and companionship during the holiday season.
Volunteers Create a Warm Holiday Meal
For more than 25 years, the OUR Center has hosted Thanksgiving meals for the community.
Originally held in partnership with the CraftWorks Foundation at the former Old Chicago Pizza location, the event shifted to the OUR Center’s own facilities after the restaurant’s closure in 2020.
This year, between 50 and 100 people attended, including individuals who had nowhere else to go for the holiday.
The meal was entirely prepared and served by volunteers, many of whom are regular supporters of the OUR Center.
Among them was the nonprofit’s executive director, Marc Cowell, who joined the team in the kitchen.
Development Director Elaine Klotz noted that recruitment wasn’t necessary, as so many community members were eager to help spread holiday cheer.
OUR Center's Community Roots
The OUR Center, established in 1986, was born out of a collaborative effort by local churches to better support those in need.
Recognizing that individual churches couldn’t always meet the growing demand, they united to form the Outreach United Resource Center.
Today, the organization continues to offer vital services, including daily meals at its Family Resource Center in Longmont.
Beyond holiday events, the OUR Center provides meals every single day of the year.
These efforts are funded largely through individual donations and support from local churches.
The organization emphasizes collaboration with other agencies to maximize its impact on the community, especially for individuals and families facing emergency situations.
Future of Support and Giving Season
As the holiday season highlights the spirit of giving, the OUR Center encourages the community to continue their support throughout the year.
While donations typically surge during "giving season," the organization faces increasing demand for its services.
Consistent support is vital to meeting the needs of local families.
The nonprofit operates with remarkable efficiency, keeping administrative costs to just 13% of its budget.
This ensures that most of the funding directly benefits the people they serve.
With rising needs, the OUR Center remains committed to transforming lives and fostering hope in the Longmont community.
