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Sunday, March 21, 2010   53º F

Updated 11/26/2009 04:38 PM

Volunteers help spread Thanksgiving cheer

By: Jim Gibbons

All across the country, people are giving thanks this Thanksgiving Day, but there are some that take it to a whole different level. Our Jim Gibbons stopped by the Rome Rescue Mission to talk with people who spend their holiday helping out people who need it most.

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ROME, N.Y. -- The spirit of giving was in full swing Thursday afternoon in Rome. As dozens sat down to enjoy a warm Thanksgiving dinner, a handful of good samaritans were behind the scenes making sure it was of the utmost quality.

"It makes me feel good inside about helping people that need, because you never know when you're going to be needed and when we're going to need somebody to help us out along the way," said Eddie Myriee, a volunteer from Rome.

People of all ages gave up their holiday morning to help out people less fortunate. And whether it was their first time or not, they just knew it was what they had to do.

"I don't know, I'm just compelled to do it, it's not really a thought," said Chris Newell, a volunteer from Westchester.

"Many of the people that prepare the meals are people that are in our services, our shelter services," said Matt Miller, Executive Director for the Rome Rescue Mission.

"I got a lot of help along the way of my life, so I try to give back when I can," said Myriee.

And giving back is what it's all about for those lending a helping hand.

"Being able to provide just a time of being thankful for them for what they're doing and what they're trying to accomplish in their life," said Miller.

Thursday was the 17th year the Rome Rescue Mission hosted it's Thanksgiving Dinner.

For more information on the Rescue Mission, visit www.romemission.org.