Operation Turkey Volunteer Information

Downtown Rotary Service Opportunity with Operation Turkey

Operation Turkey is just around the corner! Help us prepare and deliver thousands of Thanksgiving meals to families in need across Houston. This annual service project brings together district-wide Rotarians, families, and community volunteers to share the true spirit of Thanksgiving—serving others with compassion and teamwork.

Tailgate Day: Wednesday, November 26
Delivery Day: Thursday, November 27

Bring your children, grandchildren, friends, and family—it’s a wonderful way to give back together this holiday season.


About Operation Turkey

Operation Turkey is 100% volunteer-run. There are no paid employees, and every dollar goes directly to feeding someone in need.

For 26 years, Operation Turkey has worked to ensure that no one is forgotten on Thanksgiving. Powered entirely by volunteers, donors, and community sponsors, we come together each year to serve more meals, reach more people, and bring comfort and dignity to those in need.

This Thanksgiving, let’s show up for our neighbors, for our community, and for each other.


Turkey Tailgate

The Turkey Tailgate takes place the day before Thanksgiving. Volunteers come together to cook turkeys, sort toiletry and clothing donations, gather any last-minute supplies, and get everything ready for an early start the next day.

Thanksgiving Morning

This is the main event where we build the meals and deliver them out to the community. Volunteers of all ages step into roles including setup, cooking, plating, packaging, and delivering meals to those in need.


Can't help in person? Consider donating.

Operation Turkey is a nationwide effort. The goal is to prepare, package, and deliver more than 50,000 meals this Thanksgiving from coast to coast.

At an average cost of $3.50 per meal, Operation Turkey must raise approximately $200,000 to purchase food and supplies.

If you’d like to become a sponsor, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to request our sponsorship package.

You can also make a tax-deductible donation anytime by going to their donation page.


Sign Up for Your Location

Houston Northwest (American Legion Spring Branch)
• Tailgate Sign-Up
• Thanksgiving Day Sign-Up

Houston Katy (Katy Elks Lodge)
• Tailgate Sign-Up
• Thanksgiving Day Sign-Up

Houston Southeast (CT Church)
• Tailgate Sign-Up
• Thanksgiving Day Sign-Up

Houston Midtown (St. Paul’s Methodist Church)
• Tailgate Sign-Up
• Thanksgiving Day Sign-Up

Event Information

Event Date 11-26-2025 8:00 am
Cut Off Date 11-27-2025 8:00 am
Individual Price Free

We are no longer accepting registration for this event