PENDLETON — Blue Mountain Community College is making a list and checking it twice as volunteers prepare to serve a free community holiday dinner.

The school’s Associated Student Government team is setting the table for the festive event. Garrett Mickalson, BMCC’s student recruitment and engagement coordinator, said about 30 volunteers are involved with preparing and serving the meal. Giving back to the community, he said, is important to the college and its ASG team.

“Community is in our name,” he said. “This is an opportunity to provide community members with a warm meal and human connection to those who may not have other opportunities for it.”

The popular event — Mickalson said in the past, up to 1,200 community members have enjoyed a traditional Christmas dinner — was put on pause at the onset of the pandemic. In its 50th year, the festive feast will be served Wednesday, Dec. 20, 4-6 p.m. in Pioneer Hall on BMCC’s Pendleton campus, 2411 NW Carden Ave. In addition, meal delivery and transportation options are available.

ASG President John Glidewell said the dinner is a way to give back and celebrate the season. In addition, he said it serves to unite students, faculty and community members.

“It’s a symbol of togetherness and community spirit,” Glidewell said. “This year, especially, it’s a beacon of hope and resilience as we gather again to celebrate and support each other.”

Previously, the event was held on Christmas Eve. With student volunteers hailing from cities all across Oregon and even in other states, Mickalson said the timing added to the hustle and bustle of an already busy season, making holiday planning even more hectic. And often, he said, students look forward to a break after the end of the term.

“We wanted to provide an opportunity for these students to participate … and still have time to travel and get home in time to be with family and friends,” Mickalson said. “It just made sense to move the dinner to a time that would allow them to still participate.”

While Santa Claus was all booked up and won’t make an appearance at the 2023 event, Mickalson said adults, students and children are invited to enjoy the free meal. He said the evening will include holiday music. Kaley Cope, BMCC’s marketing and communications, said guests can “expect a warm meal, festive atmosphere and an abundance of holiday cheer.”

The dinner is supported by the efforts of the ASG team, private donations and more than 30 volunteers. Glidewell said community involvement is the cornerstone of the event’s success.

“We invite everyone to participate by attending, volunteering or donating,” he said. “Each contribution adds to the warmth and reach of the dinner, making a real difference in people’s lives.”

For more information, to make a donation or to arrange delivery or transportation, contact Mickalson at gmickalson@bluecc.edu or 541-278-5861.