Rev. Sam Tharpe has always wanted to feed people — and, espeically, to make sure no one goes hungry on Thanksgiving.

"That's just me," said Tharpe on a recent day in his L Section home. "We've got to help people. No one should go hungry."

That's what propelled the longtime Rohnert Park resident, history teacher and football coach to to start the city's Thanksgiving day dinner, now in its 23rd year.

It was a slow start. Tharpe said back in the late '80s, only about 30 or 40 people would show up at the Burton Avenue Recreation Center, where it was initially held. But through the years, Tharpe's dedication to serving the needy has made the holiday dinner a success.

Last year, an estimated 2,000 plates went out countywide, and more than 400 people joined together for Thanksgiving at the Rohnert Park Senior Center — where the dinner is served today.

And, organizers are expecting even more people this year.

"A lot of people are in need now," Tharpe said. "There's no question the economy is taking its toll."

The effort is a well-oiled machine: volunteers show up for the set up and breakdown, some come specifically to drive dinners out to those who can't leave their homes or don't have access to food, some just show up at the Senior Center to keep diners company, local restaurants give up space in their kitchens and cook more than 40 turkeys for the feast and others show up to serve.

"Rev. Tharpe feeds everyone who walks through the door," said Jessica Schierberl, a community services specialist who runs the Senior Center. "We don't take in any revenue, but it's important for the community, and there are so many seniors here who don't have family anymore."

Councilman Joe Callinan, who grew up here and has been volunteering with his family for years, said Tharpe should be "commended."

"He always does such a great job," Callinan said.

"I've got five kids, and I've been bringing them there to volunteer since they were little — it teaches them what it's like to give back," he added. "What people need most of all is a nice meal, and someone to talk to."

"It's an important event for the whole community," he added. "It's made a difference, but still, we wish we could do more."

Message from Rev. Tharpe: We're looking for people who need food and for people who want to help out. If you need food delivered, either on Thanksgiving, or after, call 707-795-8612. Call also if you're willing to help in any way. Donations can be mailed to the Shiloh Christian Fellowship, at P.O. Box 127, Cotati, Calif. 94931.

Editor's note: The Thanksgiving dinner is served on Thanksgiving Day, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Rohnert Park Senior Center, located at 6800 Hunter Dr.