Coach Dan Lanning and the Oregon Ducks made a heartfelt decision this Thanksgiving: they dedicated their holiday to giving back to the community. In a time when many focus on feasting and festivities, Lanning and his players took to the streets of Eugene, embodying the true spirit of the season by helping those in need.
Community Partnership for a Greater Cause
This year, the Ducks partnered with the Best Roofing Company of Eugene and several local churches, creating a powerful alliance aimed at making a difference. Together, they worked tirelessly to feed over 1,300 families in need. While Lanning and his players didn’t cook the meals, they played a crucial role in loading trucks and delivering food throughout the community, showcasing their commitment to service.
A Tradition of Giving
This charitable effort is not a one-off event; it’s an annual tradition in Eugene as part of an interfaith program. Patty Buss, the program director of One Hope Network, shared the origins of this impactful initiative. “It all started, literally, in one church that was serving about 200 families, but as the churches began to work together, the pastors said, ‘Let’s expand this; we can serve more families,'” she explained. This collaborative spirit has allowed the event to grow significantly over the years, demonstrating the power of community unity.
Dan Lanning’s Perspective
While helping load meals into vehicles, Coach Lanning reflected on the importance of their involvement. “I was extremely impressed with the amount of support that exists in this community beyond just our football team,” he said. “How many were involved to make this event so special, how many lives and families we get to impact.” His words highlight a profound understanding that the impact of their actions extends far beyond the football field.
Lanning emphasized the Ducks’ commitment to giving back, stating, “For us, we’re always looking for opportunities to give back to the community. Our entire organization, we’re so blessed to get to do what we do, but we also have the ability to give back. We talk about Ducks do more, and this is one of the ways we can do that.” His passion for community service resonates deeply with the values instilled in his players.
Player Perspectives on Community Engagement
The sentiment of gratitude was echoed by the players, including offensive lineman Pancho Laloulu. Coming from Hawaii, Laloulu spoke about the significance of staying connected with the community. “Me, growing up in Hawaii, being kind of poor, I’ve always been thankful for everything I get,” he shared. “We’re thankful we can do stuff like this and give back to the community.” His words reflect a personal connection to the cause, emphasizing how giving back is not just an obligation, but a privilege.
Laloulu continued, “I’m a big faith dude, so I’m thankful to God for everything he’s blessed me with. I’m thankful for my coaches, I’m thankful for my teammates, thankful for my family, and I’m thankful I get to wake up for another day and just to breathe and get to do what I get to do.” This heartfelt expression of gratitude showcases the players’ deep appreciation for their opportunities and the importance of sharing those blessings with others.
Star quarterback Dillon Gabriel also participated in the event and shared his thoughts on the importance of giving back. “It’s essential for us to remember where we came from and to help those who might be struggling,” he said, reinforcing the idea that athletes have a platform to make a difference. Gabriel’s perspective highlights the responsibility that comes with being a role model and the impact of their actions on the community.
Making a Lasting Impact
The efforts of Coach Lanning and the Oregon Ducks extend beyond just one day of service. Their commitment to the community reflects a broader ethos of responsibility and compassion that can inspire others. By taking the time to give back, they not only support those in need but also strengthen the bonds within their community.
As the Ducks continue their season, they carry with them the lessons learned from this Thanksgiving experience. It serves as a reminder that while football is a significant part of their lives, the impact they can make off the field is equally, if not more, important. The community’s support and the players’ dedication to service create a powerful narrative that transcends sports.
In a world where it’s easy to get caught up in personal achievements and accolades, the Oregon Ducks exemplify the importance of humility and service. They remind us that the true spirit of Thanksgiving lies in giving, sharing, and making a difference in the lives of others. As they move forward, the Ducks will undoubtedly continue to embody these values, inspiring both their fans and fellow athletes to do the same.
