Does this thanksgiving dilemma make me a jerk?

I would just be honest and tell them that you don't feel comfortable with the drive. Tell them you're vegan and this is really unethical to you. Suggest that you could do another type of drive, fundraiser, or volunteer work in place of this one to make up for any points, credits, participation, etc. Hopefully, they will be understanding. If not, try and talk to the people above them for answers and help.