Hawks Host Special Thanksgiving

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Coach Drew gave the Hawks players and coaches a day off from practice on Wednesday, but everyone on the team still had some work to do off the court. The players traded in their jerseys for aprons and chef's hats to serve a special Thanksgiving dinner at City of Refuge's Eden Village located in downtown Atlanta.

Eden Village is a United Way Community partner that exists to restore lives, redeem women and return families home. The first full year of operation for Eden Village I helped 146 women and 290 children have a safe and protected place to live, receive three meals a day, develop an individualized service plan that was supervised by a licensed case worker, and attend life skill and personal finance budget classes.

The players were joined by coaches and front office staff that included team President Bob Williams to serve an elaborate meal provided by Levy Restaurants. Mike Bibby greeted one section of the serving line with plates, silverware and a smile, while Joe Johnson and Al Horford finished off the main course by manning the ham and turkey stations. Assistant coach Lester Connor made sure everyone got desert with the help of Jeff Teague and Marvin Williams, and Player Development Instructor Nick Van Exel showed why he was called "Nick the Quick" in his playing days by delivering drinks to tables throughout the dining area. The rest of the Hawks players and staff all made sure everyone was happy and full by serving various dishes.

The event kicked off the Hawks "Season of Giving" that will run from now until New Year's Day. All NBA and NBA Development League teams, players, and staff celebrate the annual NBA Cares Season of Giving by bringing holiday cheer to thousands of people in need by hosting more than 350 charitable events throughout November and December. Link