Honoring Our Roots. Celebrating Our Elders. Sharing the Joy.
Hi! I am Lisa Gray, the daughter if one of the founders of the Dixwell Neighborhood Corporation, William "Pete" Gray.
For 50+ years, the Dixwell Neighborhood Corporation pioneered programs to support our community's families. They built housing, put people to work, ran school and summer programs, and cared for our elders. One of their hallmark events, a Thanksgiving meal for 200 seniors. This year, the Friends of the Dixwell Neighborhood Corporation, a group of former DNC workers, children of founders, and friends are coming together to revive this cherished neighborhood tradition.
On Tuesday, November 24, 2026, we are hosting a home-style Thanksgiving dinner for 150 community elders at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church Parish Hall. We want to honor the legacy of leaders like Ann Hill, Jack Valentine, Alberta Russell, and my dad, Pete Gray but more importantly, we want to ensure that no elder spends the holiday alone or goes hungry.
Much like Dixwell Neighborhood Corporation, we can't do it alone. Your donation, of any amount, will help make Thanksgiving a joyful time for our elders.
| Giving Level | Your Impact | Recognition & Gratitude |
| $25 – Gift of Gratitude | Show one senior how much they are appreciated with a delicious holiday meal served with warmth, care, and holiday cheer. | Receive a shout out on the day of the event |
| $100 – Gift of Togetherness | Brings holday cheer trough the joy of music to the festivities. | Above + a certificate of thanks suitable for framimg |
| $250 – Gift of Belonging | Helps ten seniors experience the warmth of the holiday season through a shared meal, joyful fellowship, and lasting memories. | All of the above + a photo from the event suitable for framing |
| $500 – Celebration Sponsor | Creates a festive gathering filled with delicious food, music, laughter, and engaging activities that make our seniors feel truly celebrated. | All of the above + your logo on flyers |
| $1,000 – Legacy Sponsor | Leads the way in honoring the generations who have shaped our community. Your generosity helps make the entire celebration possible, creating an uplifting experience that celebrates an enduring legacy. | All of the above + logo displayed on day of event |
Your donation of any amount will bring holiday joy and good vibes to 150 elders in and from Dixwell.
Join Us. Donate Now.
