T.I. Marks 20 Years of Thanksgiving Giving in Atlanta
Clifford “T.I.” Harris Jr. recently celebrated a significant milestone, hosting the 20th Annual Harris Community Works Turkey Drive and Pre-Thanksgiving Luncheon in Atlanta. This beloved tradition, a cornerstone of holiday support, once again brought together city leaders, volunteers, and thousands of families.
Two Decades of Dedicated Service to Atlanta
What began two decades ago as a heartfelt mission to ensure grandparents and grandchildren could share a Thanksgiving meal has blossomed into one of Atlanta’s most impactful holiday outreach initiatives. The Harris Community Works, founded by T.I., has consistently provided essential support, feeding tens of thousands of residents over the years and fostering a deep sense of community.
Community Spirit Thrives at Jackson Memorial Baptist Church
On a crisp Tuesday afternoon, the parking lot of Jackson Memorial Baptist Church buzzed with activity, hosting this year’s monumental event. In partnership with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and City Councilmember Andrea L. Boone, the drive served approximately 2,000 families, offering hot meals, traditional turkey giveaways, and invaluable community connection, dignity, and hope. Dignitaries like Mayor Dickens, Young Dro, and T.I.’s sons Bomani and King Harris joined a host of volunteers, loading vehicles with turkeys and meal items.
A City United in Praise
Standing before the appreciative crowd, Mayor Andre Dickens lauded T.I.’s enduring commitment to the city. “For 20 years, he’s been a great contributor to this community,” Dickens remarked, emphasizing that “Atlanta is a group project, and Tip and his whole family know how to show up and give a whole lot.” He highlighted the critical impact of such efforts, especially when many face food insecurity.
Councilmember Andrea L. Boone, deeply involved in the Harris family’s community work, echoed these sentiments, honoring past community leaders and recognizing the crucial support from sponsors like Publix, Comcast, and Norfolk Southern. She proudly stated, “This family continues to give, give, give. Look at what we’ve accomplished.”
T.I.: ‘All the Glory Goes to God’
When T.I. addressed the attendees, his words resonated with humility and gratitude. The multiplatinum and Grammy-winning artist, known for his diverse career as a rapper, actor, and philanthropist, embraced his role as a dedicated neighbor. “All the glory goes to God,” he began, attributing his success and ability to serve to divine grace.
He extended his thanks to Mayor Dickens, recalling their early voter outreach collaborations, Councilmember Boone, his family, the Grand Hustle staff, and the numerous volunteers and sponsors whose collective efforts brought the annual luncheon to fruition. Closing with his signature warmth and urgency, T.I. addressed the community directly: “Most of all, thank you to the community, because it’s because of y’all that we’re able to stand here today. Happy holidays — and let’s go get to work.”
The Evolving Impact of an Atlanta Tradition
The Harris Community Works Turkey Drive continues to grow, not only in scale but in its profound impact on Atlanta. What started as a local neighborhood initiative has evolved into a powerful symbol of the city’s collective generosity and unwavering communal spirit, demonstrating that compassion truly is the heartbeat of Atlanta.
| Aspect | Early Years (Origin) | 20th Annual Event (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Mission | Ensure grandparents & grandchildren share Thanksgiving | Provide community, dignity, and hope |
| Families Served (Approx.) | Initial smaller scale (not specified) | 2,000 families |
| Overall Impact | Neighborhood effort | Significant city-wide holiday outreach, fed tens of thousands over 20 years |
| Key Collaborators | T.I. and early volunteers | Mayor Andre Dickens, Councilmember Andrea L. Boone, corporate sponsors, Young Dro, T.I.’s sons, dozens of volunteers |
Frequently Asked Questions About the Turkey Drive
- What is the Harris Community Works Turkey Drive?
It’s an annual pre-Thanksgiving event in Atlanta founded by Clifford “T.I.” Harris Jr. that provides hot meals and turkey giveaways to families in need. - How long has this event been running?
The 2025 event marked the 20th anniversary of the Harris Community Works Turkey Drive, making it a long-standing Atlanta tradition. - Who were some of the key participants this year?
T.I. hosted, joined by Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, City Councilmember Andrea L. Boone, rapper Young Dro, and T.I.’s sons Bomani and King Harris, alongside many volunteers and corporate sponsors. - How many families were served at the 20th annual event?
Approximately 2,000 families received support, including hot meals and Thanksgiving turkeys. - What is the broader impact of this initiative?
Beyond providing food, the drive fosters community, offers dignity, and instills hope, evolving into a significant symbol of Atlanta’s generosity and communal spirit.
T.I.’s continued dedication through the Harris Community Works Turkey Drive reminds us that the true spirit of the holidays lies in collective generosity and showing up for our neighbors. Consider how you can contribute to local initiatives and strengthen our Atlanta community year-round.
T I marks two decades of Thanksgiving in Atlanta
