From Gratitude to Giving: Dads, Make This Thanksgiving Count

From Thankful to Thoughtful: Dads, Let’s Put Gratitude into Action This Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving, Dad.
This is your reminder to soak up the smiles, savor the turkey, and enjoy a slow moment with your family.

And also—maybe—press pause and ask:

What does gratitude look like in action?

From Leftovers to Perspective

You know the rhythm:

• Turkey today.
• Sandwiches tomorrow.
• Casseroles by the weekend.
• Maybe even turkey tacos if you’re feeling creative.

Food is part of what makes this season special. The smells, the table, the laughter, the traditions.

But here’s something we sometimes forget:
Not everyone is feasting this week.

Just look at the reality:

• Over 9 million people have died of hunger this year.
• 1 in 9 people globally is undernourished.
• Americans waste over 84,000 tons of food per day—enough to feed the world’s hungry three times over.
• Obesity-related illnesses receive 100x more funding than global hunger solutions.

This isn’t about guilt. It’s about awareness.
It’s about response.

And it’s about leadership—yours.

Dads, What Will You Do With Your Gratitude?

You know this already: your kids are watching you.
So as you say “thanks” for a warm home, good food, and family around the table—take it a step further.

Let your gratitude move your family to generosity.

Lead the conversation:

• Who around us needs help?
• How can we give out of what we’ve been given?
• What do we want to stand for as a family this season?

Simple, Meaningful Ways to Give This Season

You don’t have to solve world hunger.
But you can change someone’s world. Start here:

• Clean out & sell items as a family. Use the money to bless someone else.
• Donate food, toys, or coats. Let your kids pick what to give.
• Sponsor a child or support a ministry. Let your kids help choose the cause.
• Join (or skip) the shopping frenzy. Choose service over stuff—maybe even on Black Friday.
• Limit screen time to make time for someone else. Volunteer together. Write cards. Serve a meal.

If your family feels overwhelmed by too many opportunities to “give back,” simplify. Choose one or two causes that mean something to you.

The point isn’t to do it all.
The point is to do something—and do it together.

Lead With Presence, Not Pressure

Your kids don’t need a lecture.
They need an example.

Let them hear your heart.
Let them help decide where the family gives.
Let them see that thankfulness isn’t a feeling—it’s a habit.