10th Annual Turkey Day Tailgate

A decade of giving back to Philadelphia’s community, PhillyPR girl’s event returns for their 10th year with the Headstrong Foundation 

The Giants and the Eagles had their second match up of the season after taking a tough loss earlier in October. This loss came the same day as the Philadelphia Phillies lost their chance for the world series, and the Flyers lost their season opener.

Fortunately for Philadelphia, the Eagles were able to get their win back at Lincoln Financial Field on October 26th for Sunday afternoon football. Not too far away from the NRG station, FDR park picnic area was filled with early morning tailgaters since early this morning. Tucked away at the picnic area, was Turkey Day Tailgate in full swing. 

The Turkey Day Tailgate is organized each year by PhillyPRgirl, a public relations firm based in Philadelphia. The event was made to support non-profits in the Philadelphia area, this year the beneficiary is Headstrong Foundation. TheTurkey Day Tailgate returns this year for its 10th anniversary. Kate Marleys Rodgers, owner of PhillyPRgirl says this 10th, may be their final year, “It is always so rewarding. We might come up with something different next year, we have to see.” 

The Headstrong Foundation works every year during Thanksgiving season to carry out a meal drive. This drive raises money to fund dinners that are served at Abramson Cancer Center in Philadelphia on Thanksgiving Day to patients, families, and staff that work the floors.

Headstrong Foundation was founded in 2006, by Nick Hall, who later lost his battle with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma cancer. His family has carried out Nick’s mission since his passing, 18 years ago. “Nick’s favorite holiday was Thanksgiving so that is how he wanted to really start giving back to families.” said Jen Hildebrand, director of marketing for the foundation. 

PhillyPR girl invited Headstrong Foundation personally, Hildenbrand said, “It is a really great way to get our mission and awareness out there to a different audience, but with the same goal of celebration. The camaraderie between us, our colors are lime green and royal blue for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, and today we are in a sea of green.”

Among the other supporters tabling, was Temple University’s Black Public Relations Society (TUBPRS), with their sponsors Poppi soda brand. Ayanna Lovelace, president of TUBPRS was grateful for the opportunity to give back to the community, and the recent resurrection of the organization. “It is super great for us to be immersed in the community. A lot of us are not from Philly to be able to have the opportunity to come and give back to Philadelphia, it means a lot.” Lovelace is grateful for the opportunity to participate in outreach and feels they are able to do so because of the generosity and support of Klein College and TUBPRS’ own advisor.

Celebrations carried on before the 1pm game. To pass the time, there were giveaways, pong tables, food trucks, and a costume contest. The Eagles would redeem themselves, and take the win over the Giants, 20-38. There were about 300 people who bought tickets to the Turkey Day Tailgate, and Headstrong Foundation will receive the entirety of the proceeds. Headstrong Foundation will be selling turkey dinners throughout the month of November leading up to Thanksgiving, if you are interested in making a donation visit Headstrong.org.