PBA Parents’ Council Members Open a Home for the Holiday

"There's no place like home for the holidays" is a wistful tune for students far from home. That's why John and Jennifer Kemp, who serve on Palm Beach Atlantic University's (PBA) parents' council, sought to give students a taste of home by hosting a Thanksgiving gathering in November.

A Family of Friends

Dubbed "Friendsgiving," the Kemp's invited nearly 60 students to join them at their home, Rolling to Riding Ranch, for a home-cooked meal.

"More than a good meal, we hope [the students] felt at home, even if just for a night," Jennifer Kemp shares. "We wanted them to experience fellowship, laughter, and the comfort of knowing they have a place of refuge while they're away at college. Every year, when we pray before dinner, we remind the students that our door is always open should they need anything while away from their own homes and families."

Some students have taken the Kemp's up on their offer by finding shelter at their ranch during hurricanes, getting together over weekends, and even joining family vacations.

A student commented that the event, which has been ongoing for three years, is a highlight of their year. International students find the time especially meaningful as they feel the time zones, countries, and continents separating them from family and cultural traditions. To students who will travel home at some point during the holiday season, it is a foretaste of reunion and festive cheer.

White Elephant gift exchanges add to the fun, filling the space with friendly chaos.

"We're incredibly grateful for our family, friends, and the PBA community who helped make this dinner special," Jennifer Kemp says. "Seeing everyone come together in kindness and faith is what this season is all about."

The Heart at Home

Rolling to Riding Ranch is named for the heart of the Kemp's home-their son, a current PBA student, who worked tirelessly to ride horses instead of relying on a wheelchair, where he was confined in adolescence due to vascular malformation around his spine. John Kemp, Jr.'s journey has led to the recent launch of The Kemp Legacy Foundation, a support for those facing challenges similar to the ones he has overcome, and continues to inspire the family's personal outreach.

"Seeing PBA students-especially those far from home-experience the love and support I've always known means so much to me," John Kemp, Jr. says. "Friendsgiving isn't just a dinner; it's a reminder that no one has to do life alone."

John Kemp, Jr. plays a big role in making Friendsgiving happen each year by extending invitations to students on campus and through social media. For the whole family, the event is a labor of love.

"My husband, my son, and I believe deeply in creating spaces of community, belonging, and encouragement," Jennifer Kemp says. "Holidays can be especially difficult for students who are far from home, so we want to offer a warm, welcoming place where they can feel supported and loved. Our family motto is 'do good, be good, be better,' and this dinner is a reflection of that-living out kindness in ways we hope inspire others as they go about their day-to-day lives."

Learn more about student life on the PBA website.