Fultondale Community Comes Together for Heartwarming Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway

Fultondale’s Heartwarming Turkey Giveaway Brings Holiday Joy

The small city of Fultondale, Alabama, was at the center of a wonderful and touching event last week as the community gathered for a heartwarming Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway. Trucks, cars, and SUVs formed a long line all the way around Fultondale Elementary School, as families prepared to receive one of the 750 free turkeys being offered. With many people waiting for up to five hours, the event took place on November 23, 2024 and served as a lifeline for many local families.

Maria Galindo’s Early Arrival

Among the first in line was Maria Galindo, who arrived bright and early at 7 a.m. for the 11 a.m. event. “It’s a blessing,” she shared, displaying genuine gratitude. With three kids and a grandbaby to feed, she felt the pinch of tight finances, and this generous giveaway made a world of difference. “Times are hard right now, and money is tight. This helps a lot because, unfortunately, I don’t get any kind of benefits in addition to my paycheck,” Galindo added.

Power of Life Foundation Steps Up

This wonderful event was made possible by the Power of Life Foundation, which has been working tirelessly for the past five years to support families in need. Founded and run by the passionate Lane Harper, who also serves as an officer with the Birmingham Police Department, the foundation’s mission focuses on empowering underserved communities and extending a helping hand to those facing economic hardship.

According to the foundation’s website, their aim is to provide assistance to a variety of groups including low-income families, senior citizens, veterans, and youth at risk. Harper, who has dedicated his life to service in various capacities, insists that his goal is not just about bridging the gap but rather “closing the gap.” He emphasized the importance of community support during difficult times, reminding attendees, “The Power of Life Foundation is here for you.”

Harper’s Commitment to Service

Harper has a long-standing commitment to his community that runs much deeper than a typical job. Since joining the BPD in 2008, he has immersed himself in community service. “While I could protect and serve as a police officer, serving comes first,” he believes. Harper’s multifaceted career has given him broad experience working in various community roles, including security for high-profile individuals and training others in self-defense tactics.

Instilling Values Through Hard Work

Harper’s strong work ethic is deeply rooted in his childhood—a lesson he learned from his hardworking parents. His mother, a dedicated teacher and nurse, spent time both in the hospital and teaching through the Peace Corps. Meanwhile, his father served as a justice on the Connecticut Supreme Court. Despite facing the challenges of their divorce, Harper highlighted the importance of maintaining family bonds amidst adult disagreements.

Reflecting on his upbringing, he said, “Regardless of the challenges, my parents instilled in me the importance of pulling together as a family.” Harper is proud of his children’s achievements, with a daughter in the U.S. Marines and a son studying to be a biomolecular engineer at the University of Alabama.

Making a Difference Beyond Traditional Roles

Through his extensive experience, Harper has identified a troubling trend within the local community, linking generational trauma and a lack of resources to the cycle of violence. He strives to inspire hope and describes how many young people today don’t have positive role models and lack the tools necessary for conflict resolution, which may lead to negative behavior.

“People should not lose trust in a higher power even when times get tough,” he reminds everyone, quoting, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding.”

A Legacy of Community Service

What started as a simple act of giving away turkeys evolved into a much larger community effort showcasing the strength and compassion within Fultondale. The Power of Life Foundation continues to build upon its legacy of service, giving individuals hope in challenging times. The remarkable work done by Lane Harper and his team reminds us all that even when the going gets tough, a helping hand is always near.

For more information about the Power of Life Foundation and their upcoming events, visit their website.