Jacksonville News

Photo by Member Mark Krancer, Kram Kran Photo

Photo by Member Mark Krancer, Kram Kran Photo

ARTICLE

Date ArticleType
11/1/2026 4:00:00 AM Member News

Russell Rowland’s 7th Annual Turkey Drive Aims to Feed 4,000+ People with 1000+ Turkeys for Florida Families

Structural engineering firm sets its largest goal yet, with monetary donations accepted
through the NEFBA Charitable Foundation and drop-off days November 17 to 19

Jacksonville, FL, October 29, 2026: Russell Rowland, a leading structural engineering firm serving Northeast Florida, announces the launch of its 7th Annual Turkey Drive with a goal of collecting more than 1,000 turkeys for local families, schools, and charities this Thanksgiving. Each turkey conservatively feeds a family of four, so reaching the goal would provide holiday meals for more than 4,000 people across the Northeast Florida region.

The drive started in 2020 with 22 turkeys and has grown every year since, reaching 801 turkeys in 2025.

“What began as a family tradition has grown into a community movement, and the generosity we see from local businesses and neighbors each year is what makes it possible,” said Jackie Rowland, President & CEO of Russell Rowland. “Every turkey feeds at least a family of four, so each donation reaches further than people expect. This year, we are aiming for more than 1,000 turkeys, which means we can feed over 4,000 of our neighbors.”

Turkey Donation Drop-Off

Frozen turkeys will be collected November 17, 18, and 19 between 9 AM and 4 PM at the Russell Rowland Jacksonville office, 12854 Kenan Dr #125, Jacksonville, FL 32258.

Tampa Office Launches Drive for MacDill AFB

This year, Russell Rowland is launching a turkey drive at its Tampa office to support MacDill Air Force Base. The firm is working with Bonnie O’Brien, a volunteer with the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) USS Tampa Unit 5, which operates in conjunction with The American Legion “U.S.S. Tampa” Post 5. Russell Rowland is providing 115 turkeys for the effort to feed service members and their families.

Supporting Local Charities and Schools

Turkeys collected will benefit organizations serving families throughout Northeast Florida and the Tampa area:

  • Betty Griffin Center

  • Gracie’s Kitchen

  • Homeless Coalition of St. Johns County

  • Hubbard House

  • MacDill AFB - Tampa

  • Mandarin Food Bank

  • REthreaded

  • Sanctuary on 8th Street

  • St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Atlantic Beach

  • Clay County schools

  • Duval County Public Schools

  • Nassau County School District

  • St. Johns County School District

For more information, contact Russell Rowland at (904) 503-3283 or visit DonateTurkeys.com.

About Russell Rowland
Russell Rowland is a woman-owned structural engineering firm licensed in 12 states, specializing in residential and commercial projects. The company is committed to building stronger communities through both professional excellence and community service initiatives.