Detroit Mercy’s Department of Athletics, in partnership with the Kalasho Empowerment of Young Scholars (KEYS) and INVEST Roosevelt Alternative High School, will unite in giving away 500 free Thanksgiving turkeys to Detroit area residents.
This special holiday event takes place Thursday, Nov. 21 at Calihan Hall from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. or until the turkeys run out. Detroit Mercy student-athletes will be on hand in the parking lot of Calihan Hall to personally hand out turkeys and help make this Thanksgiving happier for metro Detroit families.
Community members interested in a turkey should arrive at Calihan Hall on the McNichols Campus Thursday, Nov. 21 by 10 a.m. Calihan Hall is located at 4001 W. McNichols Road, Detroit, 48221.
The Kalasho Empowerment of Young Scholars and INVEST Roosevelt Alternative High School are educational organizations founded by the Kalasho family of southeast Michigan to help disadvantaged students.
Robert C. Vowels Jr., director of Detroit Mercy Athletics, said that teaming with the Kalasho family helps the University live its Jesuit and Mercy mission.
“We enjoy helping people throughout our community and around campus during this time of year,” he said. “The partnership with the Kalasho family has been phenomenal. Giving back, providing assistance and being mindful of somebody else during the holiday season is something the Department of Athletics takes great pride in and demonstrates to our student-athletes the importance of living Detroit Mercy’s mission and identity,” he added.
“In partnering with University of Detroit Mercy and the Kalasho Scholars, we look forward to sharing turkeys ahead of Thanksgiving,” said a representative of the Kalasho family.
Last year, the Kalasho family and Detroit Mercy began a relationship focused on offering additional support and services for students and families. The University hosted the high school soccer team for a game on campus. In addition, members of the men’s and women’s soccer teams and has visited INVEST Roosevelt to talk with seniors about their future plans. This year, INVEST Roosevelt Alternative High School and Detroit Mercy are considering the development of a dual enrollment program later this year.
For more regarding the turkey give away on Nov. 21 at Detroit Mercy’s Calihan Hall, please call 313-993-1700 ext. 7362. All advance media interviews can contact the University at 313-578-0336.