ACRS Board Member Debadutta Dash and volunteer David Hiller help in the kitchen during the Thanksgiving Luncheon on November 27, 2014. • Courtesy Photo
ACRS Board Member Debadutta Dash and volunteer David Hiller help in the kitchen during the Thanksgiving Luncheon on November 27, 2014. • Courtesy Photo

On Thursday, November 27, Asian Counseling and Referral Service (ACRS) hosted a Thanksgiving Luncheon for youth, families, and seniors at ACRS’ main office. Over 250 people attended, including many who had no other place to celebrate the holiday. A full Thanksgiving meal, as well as a range of delicious Asian foods, was served by 15 volunteers and staff.

“By immersing ourselves in service to others, today’s fusion of traditional Thanksgiving turkey served alongside Asian foods is an example of our great country’s long history with blended cultures,” said ACRS Board Member Debadutta Dash. “At times like these, the beauty is in embracing the cultures and traditions of our new home while maintaining respect and honor for those of our homelands.”

Victor Loo, ACRS Director of Recovery Services, organized ACRS staff, their families, and friends to host this event.

“We are responding to a need we saw in the community for culturally diverse holiday events,” Loo said. “ACRS was again happy to serve so many on Thanksgiving. It feels wonderful to know that we gave people a hot meal and a warm place to go on the holiday.”

This was the eighth year that organizers held the Thanksgiving Luncheon. It was free and all were welcome.

ACRS staff member Cee Keopanya at the Thanksgiving Luncheon on November 27, 2014. • Courtesy Photo
ACRS staff member Cee Keopanya at the Thanksgiving Luncheon on November 27, 2014. • Courtesy Photo

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