Madison, Wis. – As Thanksgiving approaches, the volunteer‑run Mad City Gobblers are gearing up for their 17th annual turkey drive, a tradition that has supplied roughly 2,000 turkeys each year to families in need throughout Dane County.
Volunteer effort and community impact
Bill Alber, known locally as “Turkey Bill,” leads the group, which is affiliated with the National Wild Turkey Federation. Alber notes that the organization has consistently provided an average of 2,000 turkeys annually since the program began, and this year the group has already ordered more than 1,000 birds.
“The need keeps growing in our community,” Alber said. “We’re giving domestic turkeys, but the need has been growing and growing and growing.” The drive partners with a range of local charities, including the Goodman Community Center’s Thanksgiving drive, Monona Food Pantry, McFarland Food Pantry, The River Food Pantry, St. Vincent de Paul, and the Salvation Army.
How the drive works
Donations from Madison residents cover the cost of each turkey. Volunteers will be on the streets of Monona, McFarland and Middleton during two weekend windows—November 13‑15 and November 20‑22—to collect contributions and spread the word.
Shoppers can stop by participating locations to learn more and donate. Alber emphasizes that the effort is about more than a meal; it’s a reminder that the community cares for its neighbors.
“We’re letting people know that people care, and that’s what our whole life is about,” Alber said. “You got to care for others. Everybody has their ups and downs in life.”
Alber adds that the generosity of Madison’s residents has been a constant source of encouragement, even as demand for assistance rises.
Looking ahead
The Gobblers hope to ensure that every family who wishes to enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal can have a turkey on their table. Their simple goal—“to make sure families who want a traditional Thanksgiving meal have access to one”—remains at the heart of the drive.
Community members who wish to support the cause are urged to contribute during the upcoming weekends or to donate online through the group’s website.
Original reporting: NBC15 WMTV (Gray) – local — read the source article.
