Capdau Gives Back: Thanksgiving is Seasoned to Perfection

Pierre A. Capdau Charter School’s staff, family members and students made sure Thanksgiving was Seasoned to Perfection for a group of local senior citizens.

For the past three years, the school has partnered with adult day care centers to provide a meal the week of Thanksgiving. This year, about 50 senior citizens attended from Abundant Life Adult Day Health Center, located just steps from the school.

“We serve food and we dance and just have a great time,” Capdau Principal Jacquelyn Mahatha said. “It’s a wonderful way for us to give back during this season of Thanksgiving.”

The tradition – dubbed Seasoned to Perfection – was started more than a decade ago by Capdau’s co-principal Dr. Edward Brown as a way to honor his grandparents. It’s followed him to every school he’s lead.

“During the holiday season when I was growing up we would always spend time with family and with my grandparents,” Brown said. “I noticed how important it was as we got older to be around family so I wanted to reach out to seniors who may not have that same opportunity.”

Capdau’s staff members donate food and money for the event, Brown’s mother cooks and staff and students volunteer to serve the meals. New Beginnings Schools Foundation gifted and talented music teacher Joe Saulsbury and his jazz band provide the music, making it a true celebration for the seniors.

“It’s a staple of the culture we want to create. We are very family-oriented at Capdau so we want to extend that to the community as well,” Brown said.