The Presbyterian Congregation in Williamstown is inviting the community to a special Chicken Pie Dinner Neighbor Night on Saturday, March 29, from 4-7 p.m. The event will take place at the church’s fellowship hall, located at 314 W Fifth St., Williamstown.
This annual dinner is a cherished tradition that not only brings the community together over a delicious homemade meal but also supports a meaningful cause. This year, all proceeds will benefit the Mid-Ohio Valley Parkinson’s Support Group, specifically funding scholarships for the Rock Steady Boxing program, a non-profit initiative that helps individuals with Parkinson’s disease improve their mobility, strength, and confidence through specialized boxing exercises.
A Homestyle Menu for a Great Cause
Attendees can look forward to a comforting meal featuring:
- Homemade Chicken Pie (prepared using a beloved local recipe)
- Mashed Potatoes
- Green Beans
- Coleslaw
- Dessert
- Beverage
For those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home, take-out options will be available for pick-up.
The suggested donation for the meal is $12 per person, $20 per couple, and $6 for children under 10. Every dollar raised will contribute to funding the Mid-Ohio Valley Parkinson’s Support Group’s scholarship program, ensuring individuals battling Parkinson’s can access life-changing therapy.
A Tradition of Community and Compassion
The Chicken Pie Dinner is more than just a fundraiser—it is a way for the church to live out its values of community, support, and kindness. Pastor Elizabeth Campbell-Maleke, who leads the First Presbyterian Church of Williamstown and Waverly-Bethel Presbyterian Church, explained the deeper meaning behind the event:
“This initiative is part of the congregation’s commitment to our Presbyterian Christian roots, especially inspired by Presbyterian saint Fred Rogers, who reminds us: ‘I have always wanted to have a neighbor just like you. I’ve always wanted to live in a neighborhood with you.’”
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“Imagine what our real neighborhoods would be like if each of us offered, as a matter of course, just one kind word to another person,” Campbell-Maleke continued. “Like Jesus, who often gathered people together to share a meal, we also want to add to that kind word a wholesome meal.”
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Each year, the church identifies a cause that aligns with the compassionate spirit of Mr. Rogers, who dedicated his life to promoting kindness and inclusivity. Supporting individuals with Parkinson’s disease fits perfectly within that vision, as the congregation believes Rogers would champion the strength and courage of those facing this challenging condition.
Supporting the Rock Steady Boxing Program
The funds raised will help provide scholarships for the Rock Steady Boxing program, a non-profit exercise-based initiative that uses boxing techniques to improve balance, strength, and overall quality of life for individuals with Parkinson’s. Research shows that physical activity, particularly non-contact boxing, can slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease and help participants regain confidence in their movements.
The Mid-Ohio Valley Parkinson’s Support Group plays an essential role in making these programs accessible to those who need them, and the Chicken Pie Dinner aims to contribute directly to this mission.
An Open Invitation to the Community
The Presbyterian Congregation in Williamstown warmly invites everyone to take part in this special event. Whether you join in for the delicious chicken pie or simply want to show support for an important cause, your presence will make a difference.
As Campbell-Maleke concluded:
“And so again, neighbors, won’t you join us?”
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