Tag Archive for: causes

DINING OUT FOR LIFE 2024

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/5/24

Over 60 participating restaurants will donate a portion of proceeds to the cause

Wednesday, April 24

The Atlanta restaurant community is proud to rally behind Open Hand’s 31st Annual Dining Out For Life event on Wednesday, April 24. With a robust roster of over 60 participating restaurants, Dining Out For Life offers Atlantans the chance to enjoy their favorite dishes across the Atlanta area, all while supporting meal delivery to individuals living with nutrition-sensitive chronic diseases, at-risk youth and families and homebound seniors. Among the notable restaurants participating this year are beloved Atlanta establishments, such as Word of Mouth Restaurants, Sorella Vicina, Tiny Lou’s, and Buena Vida Tapas Bar. For a comprehensive list of all participating restaurants, please visit the Dining Out For Life website.
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“Through this annual event, we witness the community coming together to support those in need of Open Hand’s healthy and nutritious meals,” said Executive Director, Matthew Pieper. “Dining Out For Life is a simple yet impactful way for diners to savor their favorite restaurants or venture into new culinary experiences, all while making a difference and giving back in the process.”

Since 1993, Atlanta’s culinary community has banded together, raising over $3 million in support of Open Hand’s mission to furnish healthy meals and nutritional education to local residents who are struggling with chronic illnesses or food insecurities. Each year, thousands of supporters dine out with the understanding that participating restaurants will donate a portion of the bills. Funds raised during the one-day event help Open Hand deliver 5,000 nutritious meals daily and support neighbors better manage their chronic diseases and disabilities.
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Ways to Support Open Hand:

For more information on Dining Out For Life and Open Hand, as well as to stay up-to-date on events and volunteer opportunities, please visit openhandatlanta.org/dofl and openhandatlanta.org.

“TOSSED OUT TREASURES” KICKS OFF ST. PATRICK’S DAY WEEKEND OF SALES WITH SPRING FLING LAUNCH PARTY

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/13/24

The Luck of the Irish Isn’t Needed for Fantastic Finds When The Sandy Springs Society’s “Upscale Resale” Fundraiser Returns March 14-17

Forget Black Friday. Each year crowds gather in line to be among the first shoppers to see what amazing items await at Tossed Out Treasures, a bargain hunters’ extravaganza. The annual shopping for a cause event, hosted by the Sandy Springs Society benefits nonprofit organizations throughout the community. Last year’s record-breaking sales raised more than $100,000, with hopes for this year to break that record.

The sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Mar. 15 and Saturday, Mar. 16, and from noon-3 p.m. Sunday, Mar. 17. In partnership with Jamestown, this year’s sale will be held at 5920 Roswell Road, Suite C203 in Sandy Springs. This is in the former Tuesday Morning location in the Parkside Shopping Center, above the Sandy Springs Cinema & Taphouse.

Admission to Tossed Out Treasures is free and open to the public on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. For those wanting to be first to discover this year’s finds, a
‘Spring Fling’ preview party, including a festive dinner buffet and silent auction, will be held from 6-9 p.m. on Thursday, March 14. Tickets are available for $40 through March 10 and can be purchased at the door for $50.

As The Sandy Springs Society’s longest-running fundraiser, Tossed Out Treasures, is an extensive sale featuring new and gently used items donated by members of the organization as well as the community. First held in 1992, the event’s sales showcase the reuse and repurposing of antiques, fine China, silver, glassware, designer clothing, high-end accessories, jewelry, books, upscale home decor, electronics, children’s items and more. So renowned is the quality of the merchandise, that the event has become a must attend for many antique and consignment retailers for items for their own retail outlets. Remaining merchandise is donated to area charities at the conclusion of the event.

“Inflation is continuing to have an impact on pricing on all nature of products. This is a fantastic opportunity to purchase high quality “new to you” items at exceptional prices, while knowing those proceeds are going to benefit the community vs. a large retailer,” said Kim McAfee, chair of Tossed Out Treasures. “Each year, our members and community come together with the most amazing ‘treasures.’ So much so that the lines for both the preview party and opening day seem to grow longer each year. Our ‘Spring Fling’ Preview Party is the perfect way to launch this wonderful weekend of shopping and St. Patrick’s Day festivities. You don’t need the luck of the Irish to get an incredible bargain here!”

The wide array of community donations are reviewed, sorted and displayed in a setting equivalent to an upscale department store, with sections including men and women’s clothing, antiques, children’s items, kitchen, home and garden, art, home décor and more. All items are new or gently used (all donations are carefully inspected before being included) and available for purchase at significantly reduced prices. This event gives shoppers an ideal opportunity to “go green” by upcycling and helping the environment, all while making extremely budget friendly purchases.

Guests at this year’s event will also have the opportunity to purchase the Sandy Springs Society cookbook, Savor Sandy Springs, a collection of recipes from members as well as restaurants, businesses and notable members of the Sandy Springs community. Proceeds will go towards the Society’s philanthropic grants.

Since it began in 1992, the event has raised up to $100,000 annually. These funds help more than 30 nonprofit organizations in the community through The Society’s philanthropic grants program, which supports various nonprofits that promote the arts, education, heritage, environment and social services in the city. In 2023, the Society awarded $300,000 in grants to 32 nonprofit organizations serving the Sandy Springs community. To date, the Society has awarded more than $4.8 million in grants to support the community in the past 35 years.

For more information on Tossed Out Treasures and The Sandy Springs Society, visit sandyspringssociety.org and follow on Facebook and Instagram.

THE ATLANTA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES SHAMROCKS ‘N HOPS, MARCH 16 AT WILD HEAVEN WEST END

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/13/24

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and Support Your Local Heros – Atlanta Firefighters

The Atlanta Professional Firefighters Foundation has announced Shamrock’s N Hops, a special Atlanta St. Patrick’s Day Parade after-party at Wild Heaven West End. This incredible event combines St Patrick’s Day fun with Wild Heaven’s special holiday brew- the delightfully creamy, Irish nitro stout Smiling Eyes and traditional favorites with live music, food, activities, a Cornhole Tournament, Kids activities, and a raffle for exciting prizes.  

Available now for $25.00, tickets include admission, a beer ticket, and unlimited kid’s activities and can be purchased through FreshTix at www.freshtix.com/events/shamrocks-n-hops. Fans can also purchase via phone by calling FreshTix at 678-701-6114. Proceeds from Shamrocks N Hops go directly to the Atlanta Professional Firefighters Health & Wellness Fund, which provides financial assistance for firefighters who need medical care and support. For more information about Shamrocks’ N Hops, follow us on Facebook and Instagram @ShamrocksNHops

Wild Heaven Beer West End is located at 1010 White St SW, Atlanta, GA 30310. For more information, visit Wild Heaven Beer or call 404.254.2232. Stay connected on Instagram @beerwildheaven. 

ATLANTA COMMUNITY FOOD BANK MAKES STRIDES WITH 40TH ANNUAL HUNGER WALK RUN

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/7/24

Sign up to help end hunger in the community on March 10 with virtual and in-person events

The Atlanta Community Food Bank is inviting the community to take steps together to fight local hunger. The 40th anniversary Hunger Walk Run is scheduled for Sunday, March 10, 2024, and is a hybrid event offering in-person and virtual participation. This year, Laila Ali, Former World Champion Boxer and CEO of Laila Ali Lifestyle, will be in attendance to support the Atlanta Community Food Bank’s mission to fight hunger by engaging, educating and empowering our community.

The in-person event will occur from 12-4 pm at The Home Depot Backyard – 1 Backyard Way, Atlanta, GA 30313. Virtual supporters may join any time on March 10. Online registration is now open and available through 12 pm on March 8, 2024.

“We are thrilled to kick off this year’s Hunger Walk Run that now spans four decades,” said Kyle Waide, President & CEO of the Atlanta Community Food Bank. “The event initially started to help bring various faith communities together and has expanded over the years to unite people of all walks of life and across ages to raise awareness and critical funds for local hunger relief. It’s such an honor to offer this amazing event that enables us to make significant strides in our fight against hunger.”

Every registration makes a significant impact. Each person who registers to walk is helping provide 90 meals, and each runner is helping provide 120 meals for those in need. Throughout the history of the Hunger Walk Run, more than $14.5 million has been raised for hunger relief.

The rates for online registration are $30 for walkers, $40 for runners, $25 for virtual participants who pick up their shirts, and $32 for virtual participants who wish to have their shirts mailed to them. Walk-up registration will also be available at a higher rate.

The 5K event is open to individuals of all ages and abilities. Participants may join as an individual, family, group, or team. In addition to the Walk Run, a family-friendly event livens up the day and features live music, food vendors, warm-ups, and more.

Participants may stay up-to-date on the events by downloading the Hunger Walk Run app. The app is free and may be used on iPhone and Android devices. For more information about the Hunger Walk Run, email hungerwalk@acfb.org or call (404) 419-1723.

THE GIFT OF LIFE: ART FOR A LIFE-SAVING MATCH

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 10/25/23

Distillery of Modern Art, Sunday, November 11 at 1pm

Attention art enthusiasts and philanthropists! 

We are thrilled to announce an extraordinary art show that combines creativity, community, and a noble cause. Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with stunning artwork, live painting, delectable food, and a mission to find a kidney donor. 

This art show is a celebration of talent featuring over 20 incredible artists from various backgrounds and styles. From mesmerizing paintings to breathtaking photography, this event promises to ignite your imagination and leave you inspired. 

Adding to the excitement, we have invited two talented live painters who will create masterpieces right before your eyes. Witness their artistic process unfold in real-time, as they transform blank canvases into stunning works of art. 

But, this event is not just about art; it’s about making a difference in someone’s live. We are working to raise awareness for an individual, Vy Tran, as he is in his late stages of kidney failure and is in desperate need of a hero donor. 

About Vy Tran: 

Just before the pandemic hit, I was diagnosed with end stage renal disease, essentially my kidneys stopped working. I’ve been on dialysis for the past 3 years or so and am currently on the transplant list (which can take years to find a donor). It’s been a very rough road till this point and a lot of it has to do with the physical and mental changes that come with all of this. But as of right now, I am in a good place and I am pushing forward as best I can. 

On the bright side, my transplant surgeon says I’m a good candidate for a donor kidney but no amount of surgery will change my personality. 

In addition to the mission, we are also giving back to the community and to the artists. As the holidays are closely approaching, booth space was provided free of charge to the artists allowing them to showcase their work with no overhead. As a gift to the community, food will be provided to attendees at no charge by Ruchi Bangladeshi during the duration of the show (while supplies last-food arrives at ~2:30pm) .

Free Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/717567041337?aff=oddtdtcreator

ATLANTANS COME TOGETHER FOR THE SPARK 5K

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/21/23

Inaugural event supports The Kyle Pease Foundation 

Introducing the inaugural Spark 5K, a race with 100% of registration fees and proceeds benefiting The Kyle Pease Foundation’s Inclusive Employment Program. Taking place in Atlanta’s Piedmont Park on Thursday, May 4, the event is hosting more than 30 in-chair athletes, the most participating in any Atlanta 5K to date.

“Partnering with The Kyle Pease Foundation to bring this vibrant 5K to life aligns with Roark’s mission of helping people and companies reach their potential,” Allison Hill, Head of Diversity & Social Responsibility at Roark, explained. “This run is for everyone and we are excited to see so many community members come together for such an incredible cause.” 

With a heavy focus on using the power of sports to create an inclusive experience for all participants, The Kyle Pease Foundation designed the event with the main goal of inclusion taking center stage, allowing the city of Atlanta, in-chair athletes and their push-assist athletes to come together and work towards a common goal.

“Since we created The Kyle Pease Foundation in 2011, we have sought to use sports as a way of providing inclusive opportunities for athletes with disabilities,” Kyle Pease, Founder and Chief Inspirational Officer of The Kyle Pease Foundation, stated. “Thanks to this wonderful partnership with Roark, we are able to achieve our goal of bringing Atlanta a race centered on inclusion and provide tons of athletes with the opportunity to experience the thrill of being part of the competition.”

Participants are encouraged to register at Spark5K.com in order to show their support towards an important cause. The event, which begins at 6:30pm, is a race for everyone – no matter their abilities – so it’s time for the Atlanta community to show how it rallies behind a worthy cause.

Click here to learn more about The Kyle Pease Foundation. 

Sponsors include Roark, The Coca-Cola Company,  Rabobank, Truist and more. 

SECOND SELF BEER CO TO HOST FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENT BENEFITING ATLANTA FIREFIGHTERS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/20/22

Locals are invited to shop, eat and sip brews to benefit Atlanta Professional Fire Fighters

Saturday, 9/24 at Noon to 5 pm

On Saturday, September 24, West Midtown’s favorite brewery will host a festival to raise funds for Atlanta Professional Fire Fighters (APFF), a non-profit that fights for the city’s firefighters to have proper safety resources, funds for medical care and more.

The festivities, happening from noon to 5 p.m., will feature a pop-up market, food trucks, various Second Self beers, games and more. 

Atlantans can shop from local vendors such as Sweet As a Peach Jams & Pickles, Just Add Honey Tea Company and Amore Organics — and for custom t-shirts by APFF — from noon to 2 p.m. Throughout the event, attendees can mingle with local firefighters and participate in games while savoring delicious eats and sips for a good cause. 

Second Self is releasing a limited-edition version of their fan-favorite “La Fría” with an added fruit element and renaming it La Fuega for the day (meaning “fire” in Spanish) – a nod to their support of APFF. All proceeds from La Fuega will benefit local firefighters. 

A portion of event proceeds will go towards APFF’s health and wellness fund. The charity covers everything from mental health support for PTSD symptoms, recovery for job-related injuries, funeral costs as well as much-needed financial support for families of fallen firefighters.

Fundraisers APFF has previously hosted include their annual St. Patrick’s Day Picnic in conjunction with the city’s St. Patrick’s Day parade, and a donation dine-in where they partnered with local businesses like Chick Fil-A, Hudson Grille and others on International Firefighters’ Day.

For more information about the festival, please visit APFF’s Facebook event page.

SECOND HELPINGS ATLANTA TACKLES FOOD INSECURITY AND WASTE FREE OF CHARGE

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/26/22

Atlanta’s Leading Not-For-Profit Food Rescue Organization Continues to Connect Excess Food to Those in Need

Second Helpings Atlanta was born out of a mission to reduce food waste and feed the hungry. What started as a volunteer initiative at Temple Sinai in 2004, officially incorporated as its own 501C3 in 2012, and remains the city’s leading non-profit organization rescuing healthy, nutritious, surplus food and distributing it to those in need through complex supply chain logistics. By diverting food from landfills and providing it to those in need, Second Helpings Atlanta aims to close the gap on food insecurity and keep refuse out of landfills.

“Our deep knowledge of donation nuances and delivery logistics, along with our carefully cultivated relationships with agencies, uniquely positions Second Helpings Atlanta as the frontline food rescue logistics organization in Atlanta,” said Andrea Jaron, executive director of Second Helpings Atlanta.

Every day, hundreds of volunteer drivers rescue food from more than 80 donors, including grocery stores, corporate kitchens, stadiums and big box retailers, and deliver it to more than 40 homeless shelters, food pantries, domestic violence shelters and other nonprofits across the Atlanta metropolitan area. Second Helpings Atlanta currently rescues on average 80,000 pounds of surplus fresh, perishable food each week, which keeps it out of landfills. With efficiency and sustainability in mind, Second Helpings Atlanta developed a 90- Minute Model designed to allow volunteer drivers to make local food rescues and deliveries in 90 minutes or less.

“Our team of dedicated volunteers are the heart of our organization,” continued Jaron. “Together, we hope to create change by helping people think in new ways about food waste and its societal and environmental impact.”

ABOUT SECOND HELPINGS ATLANTA:
Second Helpings Atlanta is a nonprofit food rescue logistics organization dedicated to reducing hunger and food waste in the metro Atlanta area by rescuing healthy, nutritious, surplus food and distributing it to those in need. For more information, please visit SecondHelpingsAtlanta.org or follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

DINING OUT FOR LIFE 2022

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/31/22

Open Hand Atlanta encourages the community to dine-in and give back for Dining Out For Life, April 27

 Annual fundraising event Dining Out For Life returns April 27 to support Open Hand Atlanta. Atlantans are encouraged to dine-in at one of the more than 50 participating restaurants or enjoy take-out, curbside pick-up or delivery.

Since 1993, Atlanta-area restaurants have joined together in raising over $3 million in support of Open Hand’s mission to provide community members with healthy meals and nutrition education. Every year, thousands of supporters have dined out for breakfast, lunch and dinner with the knowledge that participating restaurants would donate a portion of their bill to help Open Hand provide nearly 5,000 nutritious meals daily and support their neighbors battling chronic disease and disability to live healthier, more independent lives.

With recent hardships that continue to affect Atlanta’s food service industry, Dining Out For Life’s generous partner restaurants may not be able to give 25% as in years past, but they are committed to giving what they can to support the cause. With this in mind, restaurant-goers are encouraged to consider making a donation of their own on the restaurants’ behalf. This year’s restaurants include Atlanta favorites such as Guac y Margy’s, The General Muir, Local Three, Max Lager’s, Agave and more. A full list of participating restaurant partners can be found here.

This year, Subaru— a longtime supporter and presenting sponsor of Dining Out For Life— and the national Dining Out For Life leadership has selected Atlanta as a spotlight city. National Dining Out For Life spokesperson Mondo Guerra from Project Runway will be in town to promote the local program and spread awareness about the importance of volunteerism.

Ways to Support Open Hand:

For more information on Dining Out For Life and Open Hand, as well as to stay up-to-date on events and volunteer opportunities, please visit www.diningoutforoh.org and www.openhandatlanta.org or connect via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

THE GPC CANOPY SOIRÉE RETURNS TO ZOO ATLANTA THIS MARCH

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 2/27/22

A Philanthropic Evening of Dinner, Cocktails, Dancing, Music, a Raffle and More Hosted by and Benefitting the Grant Park Conservancy, presented by The Rob Smith Team
Friday, March 11, 2022 From 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. 
 The second annual Canopy Soirée hosted by the Grant Park Conservancy (GPC) returns on Friday, March 11, 2022 from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. Held at Zoo Atlanta in Savanna Hall overlooking the mesmerizing African Savanna exhibit, the philanthropic fête benefiting the GPC is an exciting evening featuring dinner, dessert, cocktails, a DJ, dancing, raffle prizes and much more in a beautifully decorated ballroom.
A night to remember, funds raised during this year’s event, presented by The Rob Smith Team, will be used to plant over 100 trees to enhance historic Grant Park’s tree canopy, support gazebo-rebuilding, tackle crumbling stonework on the Milledge Fountain wall, and bring the 20th installment of the Grant Park Summer Shade Festival back this August.
The Canopy Soirée is for ages 21 and up and host committee tickets, individual tickets, and tables are on sale now starting at $125 at www.gpconservancy.org/events-programs/canopy-soiree. For more information about the Grant Park Conservancy visit www.gpconservancy.org. Proof of vaccination or negative Covid-19 test required for entry.