2024 Bringing Holiday Joy: IVC Volunteers Deliver Meals and Connection

This past Thanksgiving Day, Island Volunteer Caregivers (IVC) volunteers once again brought warmth and cheer to our community through Bainbridge Island's Community Meal Program. Thanks to their compassion and dedication, we delivered 183 delicious meals to 114 individuals, ensuring no one was forgotten during this special holiday.

The meals were thoughtfully prepared by chefs from several area restaurants and the hardworking team at BARN’s Culinary Arts Studio. Each meal was carefully packed by IVC and other local volunteers. These meals were more than just food; they were symbols of connection and kindness—a heartfelt gift to neighbors who might otherwise spend the holidays alone.

Now in its third year, the dine-in option at Saint Cecilia’s Catholic Parish has ​again become a tradition. This opportunity allows community members—especially those without the means, health, or nearby family—to come together and share a meal, fostering a growing sense of connection and belonging each year.​ Over 50 people dine-ed with us.

The program originally began at Sportsman Club but evolved after COVID when the venue could no longer accommodate such a large undertaking. A team led by Laura Van Dyke, IVC’s former director and a passionate community activist, reimagined the program, shaping it into the remarkable effort it is today. With key partners like IVC, Bainbridge Island Senior Center, and Sportsman Club, Laura helped build the foundation for this initiative.

Today, IVC is honored to continue its vital role, delivering meals and supporting the dine-in option to ensure everyone can enjoy a communal holiday meal. This program thrives thanks to the generosity and collaboration of local nonprofits, sponsors, and businesses, including Bainbridge Island Senior Center, Sportsman’s Club, Rotary Club of Bainbridge, Studio Walker Architects, Puget Sound Energy, and, of course, Laura Van Dyke, whose vision and leadership continue to inspire us.

Thanks to this collective effort, the Community Meal Program grows each year, spreading warmth, nourishment, and joy to Bainbridge Island residents.

At the heart of this program are IVC​ and community volunteers. They do more than deliver meals; they bring friendly smiles and moments of connection to those who may feel isolated. These small yet meaningful interactions are what make this program so special.

To all the volunteers, partners, and supporters who made this possible—thank you. Your generosity ensures everyone in our community feels the joy of the season, whether through a delivered meal or one shared at the table.

From all of us at IVC, happy holidays! Thank you for helping us create such meaningful connections this year.