An Evening of Gratitude at PS 59: A Community Thanksgiving Celebration

On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, five S&P volunteers joined Areté Education staff, students, and families at PS 59: The Dawn Best School in Brooklyn for a Thanksgiving celebration that went far beyond a shared meal. Together, we created a vibrant cultural experience honoring the diverse identities within our school community!

Instead of a traditional Thanksgiving spread, families embarked on a culinary tour around the world, sampling dishes that reflected the rich cultural backgrounds represented at PS 59. At each station, our colleagues helped serve hot, freshly prepared meals, ensuring every guest felt welcomed and cared for.

The evening buzzed with warmth as families shared stories, students laughed with friends, and music filled the air with festive energy. As they enjoyed the celebration, families were invited to write down what they were grateful for on colorful paper strips and place them on a world map at the location of their heritage. Students also engaged in creative fall-themed crafts, making leaf and pumpkin sun catchers to take home.

By the end of the night, our team helped serve 88 students and family members from the Bed-Stuy community, turning a simple dinner into a meaningful moment of connection, culture, and shared gratitude!