Smiles Everywhere You looked at Turkey-Palooza!

There were smiles everywhere you looked at the Valparaiso's Central Park Plaza for Turkey-Palooza! An event put on by 500 Turkeys that puts on fun and “safe haven” events to raise profit for Thanksgiving dinners for families in need.

As the different bands lit up the stage and filled downtown with beautiful music, different product and food venues were set up for more entertainment. Valpo Velvet, Hungry Truck, and Designer Deserts were just a few that were serving off of their menus with a portion of their proceeds giving back to the donation of 500 Turkeys.

Children and teens enjoyed free games with prizes, a bounce-house, face-painting, and snacks that were put on by donated time and materials. A live turkey was present for children to pass by and it had tons of pictures taken with!

500 Turkeys is a nonprofit organization that gives back to the community by taking donations online and at events, which are coordinated by Brett Wilson. The donated funds supply over 500 turkeys to over 500 families each year during Thanksgiving. Starting in 2009, “by the grace of God.”

Jeni Bolton with the support of the Life Bridge Christian Church created accounts to raise funds for food to feed 500 families for Thanksgiving. With much success the numbers and goals grow. From last year's donations, over 600 families were able to enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner that they would not of been able to have if it were not for 500 Turkeys.

500 Turkey's founder, Jeni Bolton does not look at the amount of money raised, but what is actually important; the amount of lives touched and the families that are able to enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner together.

Bolton says, “It's all about bringing God to people's lives and the real bonus is feeding people.”

She also could not continue thanking everyone who contributed in the evenings festivities, because with out them she said, “The evening could not have happened.” Bolton explained, “The goal was originally 600, but because God is providing so much more, we want to be able to feed more.”

If you would like to make a donation, you can visit http://500turkeys.com/donate. By donating $30, you can feed ONE family of six and donating ONLY $15 buys ONE turkey! Every family that receives the donated meal is nominated by someone who cares for them and wants them to enjoy a blessed Thanksgiving with their families. If you or someone you know is in need of help, visit http://500turkeys.com/nominations to register yourself or another family for a complete turkey dinner this Thanksgiving. The meal includes one frozen turkey, cans of veggies, boxes of potatoes, and stuffing, as well as many other goodies! Not only food, but clothes have been donated as well.

Special thanks to everyone who has contributed to make TURKEY-PALOOZA happen.

“We pray you have a Blessed Thanksgiving and share in the spirit of the day with this gift among many things to be thankful for!”-The 500 Turkeys Team

Click here to view more photos from the event!