T.I. Celebrates Two Decades of Philanthropy: Highlights from Atlanta’s Harris Community Works Turkey Drive
On a brisk Tuesday afternoon, just ahead of Thanksgiving, the parking lot of Jackson Memorial Baptist Church was alive with an energy reminiscent of festivals or film shoots.
However, the gathering was for a more significant purpose: the 20th Annual Harris Community Works Turkey Drive and Pre-Thanksgiving Luncheon, an enduring tradition in Atlanta initiated by Clifford “T.I.” Harris Jr., a prominent figure in the city.
This year, in collaboration with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and City Councilmember Andrea L. Boone, the event provided support to approximately 2,000 families, offering hot meals, turkey distributions, and an invaluable sense of community, dignity, and hope.
Two Decades of Service
What started as a simple initiative to ensure that grandparents and grandchildren could enjoy a Thanksgiving meal together has transformed into one of Atlanta’s most significant holiday outreach events. Over the past twenty years, the Harris Community Works initiative has provided meals to tens of thousands of residents, solidifying its role as a vital source of holiday support within the community.
Jackson Memorial Baptist Church once again welcomed families for the occasion. From 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., attendees enjoyed hot meals, camaraderie, and the reassurance that no one is alone during the holiday season.
A City Shows Up
Addressing the audience, Mayor Andre Dickens commended T.I. for his long-standing commitment to the Atlanta community:
“For 20 years, he’s been a great contributor to this community,” Dickens remarked about the renowned artist. “Atlanta is a collaborative effort, and T.I. and his family know how to show up and give generously. What you’re doing is making a significant impact—especially now, when many are facing food insecurity.”
The mayor’s remarks were met with applause as he emphasized the importance of service in building a strong community.
Councilmember Andrea L. Boone, who has long been associated with the Harris family’s community outreach efforts, echoed this sentiment. She paid tribute to community leaders like C.T. Martin and acknowledged the sponsors—including Publix, Comcast, and Norfolk Southern—who help make the event possible each year.
“This family continues to give tirelessly,” she stated. “Look at what we’ve accomplished.”
T.I.: ‘All the Glory Goes to God’
When T.I. took the microphone, the crowd erupted in applause. The rapper, actor, and philanthropist has held many titles throughout his career, but at that moment, he was simply a neighbor dedicated to serving his community.
For T.I., who has deep roots in Atlanta, these philanthropic efforts are profoundly meaningful.
“All the glory goes to God,” T.I. stated. “I stand here today alive, free, healthy, and successful only by the grace of God.”
He expressed gratitude to Mayor Dickens, recalling their early voter outreach initiatives, as well as Councilmember Boone, his family, Grand Hustle staff, and the many volunteers and sponsors who contributed to the success of the annual luncheon.
In true T.I. style, he concluded with warmth and a call to action:
“Most importantly, 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 get to work.”
An Atlanta Tradition, A Family Legacy
With each passing year, the Harris Community Works Turkey Drive expands—not only in size but also in its impact. What started as a neighborhood initiative has evolved into a symbol of Atlanta’s communal spirit, reminding everyone that generosity is the foundation of the city.
