For more than three decades, ICR has proudly upheld a High Desert tradition that represents far more than a holiday meal. ICR’s long-standing Thanksgiving Turkey Drive began over 30 years ago with a simple but powerful request. While serving on the United Way board, Robert Lovingood, CEO of ICR, met Lois Fox, founder of the Good Samaritan program. After watching her provide meals, clothing, and support to local families, he asked when she needed help. Her response was immediate and heartfelt:

“Always. And I could really use turkeys at Thanksgiving.”

That single moment launched what has now become one of the High Desert’s most enduring holiday traditions.

Since that first year—when just 60 to 80 turkeys were distributed—ICR has partnered with local businesses, civic groups, and generous community members to deliver free Thanksgiving turkeys to families across Victorville, Adelanto, Hesperia, Apple Valley, and surrounding communities. Over the course of this 34-year tradition, more than 10,000 turkeys have been shared with local families, with nearly 500 more added this season alone.

“This effort has always been personal for me,” Robert shares. “There is tremendous value in creating one moment—a single meal—where a family can sit together, share time, and feel cared for.”

What began as a small act of kindness has grown into one of ICR’s most meaningful expressions of community support—an annual reminder of the generosity, partnership, and compassion that define the High Desert. And this year, that legacy continued with the same spirit of service that started it all.

Rather than distributing turkeys directly, ICR proudly collaborates with trusted community organizations that connect daily with residents most in need. This year, turkeys were provided to five exceptional partners.

Rock’n Our Disabilities Foundation distributed turkeys to local families supported through their inclusive programs and community resource efforts. High Desert Second Chance Food Bank helped place holiday meals into the hands of households experiencing food insecurity, continuing their work as one of the region’s leading hunger-relief organizations. God’s House Church extended support to families through its faith-based outreach and community care programs. A Better Way Domestic Violence Shelter helped provide Thanksgiving meals to individuals and families in need of safety and support. Victor Valley College’s Thrive Resource Center ensured that students facing food shortages and housing challenges received Thanksgiving meals during a time of year when support matters most.

ICR recognizes the outstanding generosity of this year’s donors, whose contributions made the 2025 distribution possible. Advance Disposal, Northwest Pipe, CalPortland, Flavor House Inc., Mitsubishi Cement, Victorville Rotary Club, International Carbonic, Plastipak, Robar Enterprises, Tel-Craft Communications, Sophie Steeno, and Joseph Suarez all provided financial support.

We also extend a special thank you to the Walmart Amargosa team for their hands-on assistance in loading the turkeys, helping ensure the process ran smoothly from start to finish. Together, these partner contributions ensured that hundreds of High Desert families gathered around a warm meal this Thanksgiving. Their commitment reflects the true heart of the region—neighbors helping neighbors, businesses giving back, and a community that consistently shows up for one another.

Since the program’s inception more than 34 years ago, ICR has remained committed to supporting families, uplifting local nonprofits, and strengthening the resilience of the High Desert. For many recipients, these turkeys represent more than a holiday staple; they symbolize hope, compassion, and the reassurance that their community cares. This tradition continues to thrive thanks to the unwavering support of donors, the dedication of partner organizations, and the ICR team.

ICR Staffing Services extends heartfelt thanks to every donor, volunteer, partner, and community member who contributed to this year’s success. The company is honored to continue this annual tradition and grateful to help brighten the holiday season for so many local families. From the entire ICR team—Happy Thanksgiving, and thank you for being part of the High Desert community we proudly serve.