Change 1 Thanksgiving 2026

For years, individuals, families, businesses, churches, and community organizations have helped make Change 1's Thanksgiving celebrations possible. Whether you're interested in sponsoring gifts, organizing a group collection, contributing holiday items, or volunteering your time, there's a way to get involved.

Give Together as a Group: We welcome organizations interested in supporting our Holiday Box tradition. Our team will work with your group to coordinate contributions based on this year's needs.

Volunteer Your Time: Volunteers help organize donations, prepare holiday gifts, welcome guests, and support our Thanksgiving celebrations.

Holiday Gift Preparation Dates

DFW: Friday, November 13, 2026

Austin: Friday, November 20, 2026

Choose your city below to register. Volunteer shifts and additional details will be shared with registered volunteers.

This award recognizes a youth currently in foster care who has risen above life obstacles and challenges and has had a positive impact on others with whom he/she interacts. This individual takes initiative to secure resources in support of a flourishing future.   

This award recognizes a young adult formerly in foster care who has overcome personal adversity and has had a positive turn around in their life.  This young adult has made a significant impact on others and the community, and has given back to the foster care population. 

This award will honor an organization who is currently working on foster care related issues.  This organization prioritizes youth voice in their program development and goes above and beyond to extend opportunities for youth and young adults.  

• All current foster youth (age 13-17) currently residing in Central Texas
• All former foster youth (age 18 and older) currently residing in Central Texas 
• Small organizations/businesses in Central Texas