Tenth Annual Cornelius Community Dinner (Photo) - 11/24/25

On Saturday, November 22, 2025, the City of Cornelius, in partnership with the Washington County Sheriff's Office, hosted the 10th Annual Cornelius Community Dinner. Partners were delighted to serve a free holiday meal to all community members in attendance.

The event, held at Cornelius Elementary School, provided over 400 meals featuring turkey, dinner rolls, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, cranberry sauce, dessert, and beverages.

The opportunity to share a meal and engage in conversation with fellow community members makes the Cornelius Community Dinner a truly special event that many look forward to each year. This cherished annual event not only strengthens community bonds but also spreads holiday cheer during this season of giving.

“The tradition of the Cornelius Community Dinner was first started by former Police Chief Gene Moss. Gene believed Cornelius needed a place where everyone could gather and be welcomed. This week carried a lot of uncertainty in our community, and we weren’t sure how many families would feel comfortable joining us. But Cornelius showed its heart. Moments like this remind us that circumstances don’t define community; it’s defined by how we show up for one another,” said Cornelius Police Chief Mitch Coley.

This dinner was made possible through generous donations, volunteer efforts, and the collaboration of local community partners, including:

• Bimbo Bakeries USA                                               
• Boro Burger Food Truck
• Botten's Equipment and Event Rental
• Bunny Girt - State Farm Insurance
• Cornelius Booster Club
• Cornelius Elementary School
• Cornelius Public Library
• Evergreen Disposal and Recycling, Inc.
• Forest Grove and Cornelius Chamber of Commerce
• Fred Meyer
• Reser's Fine Foods
• Sheriff's Office Foundation of Washington County
• Sodexo
• Starbucks
• Walmart
• Washington County Police Officers Association
• Western Washington County Firefighters'