Tag Archive for: charity

SWEET AUBURN BARBECUE RALLIES TOP ATLANTA RESTAURANTS FOR ASHEVILLE HURRICANE RELIEF DINNER

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 10/3/24

Local Chefs and Restaurants Join Forces for Collaborative Dinner Benefiting World Central Kitchen

Tickets On Sale Now for Monday, October 7th, Beginning at 5 p.m.

Sweet Auburn Barbecue is stepping up to help Asheville recover from the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. On Monday, October 7th, starting at 5 p.m., the beloved Poncey-Highland barbecue spot will host the Asheville Hurricane Relief Dinner, bringing together some of Atlanta’s top chefs and restaurants for a night of incredible food, all for a great cause. Tickets are $50, with 100% of the proceeds going to World Central Kitchen, a nonprofit dedicated to providing meals in response to humanitarian, climate, and community crises around the world.

At the event, where every plate supports Ashville’s recovery, guests can expect a buffet-style feast featuring Smoked Peruvian Chicken by Howard Hsu of Sweet Auburn Barbecue and James Beard-nominated Chef Arnaldo Castillo of Tio Lucho’s. The collaborative dinner will also feature a wide variety of delicious sides from Atlanta’s favorite spots including Miller Union, Georgia Boy, Southern Belle, Gigi’s Italian Kitchen, Buttermilk Kitchen, Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q, Carmel, Poco Loco, Breaker Breaker, Del Bar and many more. For those who prefer to eat at home, to-go boxes will be available. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.sweetauburnbbq.com, call 678-515-3550 or click the direct link here

THE KYLE PEASE FOUNDATION SERVES UP THE 2ND ANNUAL FOR THE LOVE OF INCLUSION TENNIS TOURNAMENT

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/20/24

Presented By Longtime Partner of the Nonprofit, The Georgia Hemp Company

Friday, October 18, 2024

Game, set, match! The 2nd Annual For the Love of Inclusion Tennis Tournament will take place at the beautiful Horseshoe Bend Country Club on Friday, October 18, 2024, for a day of fundraising and friendly competition. Benefiting The Kyle Pease FoundationThe Georgia Hemp Company is hitting the courts for the second year to support their longtime partner and sponsor the day’s festivities. Renowned for its leadership in cannabis education and high-quality hemp products, the Atlanta-born brand is proud to once again partner with the nonprofit for this year’s tournament. 

Supporting The Kyle Pease Foundation’s mission of improving the lives of individuals with disabilities through sports, all funds raised will go toward life-changing grants awarded to KPF Athletes (in-chair athletes) at the end of the year. On the heels of The Georgia Hemp Company’s Green Hat Classic Golf Tournament earlier this year, which raised over $50,000 for the nonprofit, this fall’s tennis tournament is expected to continue changing the lives of KPF Athletes and bring even more awareness to the organization’s initiatives.

The tournament will be played in Round Robin Style (Short Sets), with men’s, women’s, and mixed divisions available. A day to leave it all on the court, competitors will play in a maximum of five matches during the tournament. Throughout the day, players and supporters can take a break from the action and shop a range of The Georgia Hemp Company’s top products for training and recovery, enjoy refreshments from local sponsors, and grab a photo with the brand’s beloved mascot, Hempy. 

Registration is now open for teams here. Sponsors will have priority to available spots, and non-sponsor doubles team registration will be based on availability 60 days before the tournament.

THE HAMBIDGE CENTER ANNOUNCES ITS 29TH ANNUAL HAMBIDGE ART AUCTION AND MASQUERADE

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/20/24

Hosted on Oct. 26 at Uptown Atlanta, the art auction benefits Hambidge’s creative residency program, supporting 160+ artists, writers, musicians, dancers and chefs each year

The 29th Annual Hambidge Art Auction + Masquerade will take place on Oct. 26, from 7 to 10 p.m., in the Atrium at Uptown Atlanta, the vibrant mixed-use community surrounding the Lindbergh MARTA station. We invite everyone to enjoy an evening of creative glamor at Atlanta’s most-talked-about art event, surrounded by incredible artwork and unique performances.

This year’s Masquerade will feature a dazzling parade of creative masks and inspired attire, in addition to feet-moving, soul-stirring performances, including an on-site installation by Shanequa Gay; a movement performance by Jimmy Joyner; spirited New Orleans second line music by Groovemasters Brass Band; and rhythms & chants by Thump.

The online Silent Auction features over 200 works by emerging and established artists from across the U.S., including—Marina Abramović, Lonnie Holly and Michi Meko. To kick-start your art collection (and score some great deals), there will be over two hundred $100 fixed-price works of art up for grabs. To preview and bid on the artwork, and/or to buy tickets, visit HambidgeAuction.org, Oct. 12 through Oct. 26, 10 p.m. 

The artwork will be available to view in person by appointment Oct. 13 through 26 (sign up at HambidgeAuction.org), with a public Opening Artist Reception on Thursday, Oct. 17, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. VIP benefits include access to the VIP lounge, early online access to the $100 Works of Art section, exclusive VIP events like the VIP Party on Oct. 24, and much more! The Art Auction proceeds benefit Hambidge’s creative residency program which hosts 160+ talented artists, writers, musicians, dancers and chefs each year. In addition to providing operating funds, the Auction directly supports participating artists with up to 40% of auction sales. 

In preparation for the Masquerade, Hambidge is exploring the many ways to create a mask by hosting a series of FREE artist-led Mask-Making Fun Labs around Atlanta. Choose one and sign up at www.HambdigeAuction.org.

Mask-Making Fun Labs include:

Thursday, Sept. 26, 6-8pm

at Teller Productions, led by Scottie Rowell

Tuesday, Oct. 1, 1-3pm

at Bella Cucina in Buckhead, led by Dayna Thacker & Susan Ker-Seymer

Thursday, Oct. 3, 6-8pm

at Uptown Atlanta during Music on Main; in conjunction with the Creator Summit hosted by Ghost and Skillshot

Wednesday, Oct. 9, 6-8pm

At Whoopsies, led by George Long and PhaeMonae

Thursday, Oct. 10, 6-8pm

at The Temporary Atlanta Biennial in the Old Fourth Ward, led by Jamie Badoud & Hambidge Fellow Friends

Saturday, Oct. 19, 1-2:30pm

at The Goat Farm on the Westside, led by Sachi Rome

Brief Event Schedule

Saturday, Oct. 12 – Online Auction Begins; Register for FREE at HambidgeAuction.org 

Thursday, Oct. 17, 6-8:30PM – Opening Reception, FREE to attend; Register at HambidgeAuction.org

Thursday, Oct. 24, 6-9PM – VIP Party honoring Camille Love; open to Patrons, Sponsors, and VIP Artists

Oct. 13-26, 10AM-4PM – FREE in-person artwork viewing by appointment; sign up at HambidgeAuction.org

Saturday, Oct. 26, 6-10PM – Art Auction + Masquerade

6PM VIP Cocktail Hour; open to Patrons, Sponsors, and VIP Artists only

7PM Doors open for ticketed guests

7PM $100 Buy-It-Now Artwork is available online

7-10PM Masquerade – ticketed event

10PM Bidding ends

LOCATION All Auction & Masquerade events take place in the Atrium at Uptown, 575 Morosgo Dr NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30324

VIP TICKETS (LIMITED AVAILABILITY) – Various levels starting at $400

ADVANCE TICKETS $60 per person – $80 limited tickets at the door

LEARN MORE, BUY TICKETS, PREVIEW & BID ON ARTWORK – www.HambidgeAuction.org 

JIMMY BUFFET DAY 2024: MARGARITAVILLE AT LANIER ISLANDS HOSTING DAY OF SERVICE IN SUPPORT OF LIFELINE ANIMAL PROJECT

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/27/24

Friday, August 30, 2024

On Jimmy Buffett Day, Aug. 30, 2024, and Labor Day Weekend, Margaritaville at Lanier Islands is supporting LifeLine Animal Project, a local nonprofit providing lifesaving solutions to end euthanasia of healthy and treatable animals in county shelters, as part of the brand’s “Day of Service.”


To honor his incredible legacy, Margaritaville at Lanier Islands will host LifeLine Animal Project and its adoptable dogs at the Fins Up Water Park at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands for a ‘Dog Days of Summer’ event. Margaritaville at Lanier Islands will donate $1,500 and a portion of all souvenir cup sales directly to LifeLine Animal Project. Guests can also bring donated items from 4 to 6 p.m. to gain free entry at the Lanier Islands front gate. For more details on LifeLine Animal Project and the full donation wish list, visit LifeLineAnimal.org/wishlist.

All Margaritaville communities, properties, resorts, restaurants, destinations, hotels and cruises will conduct a brand-wide day of service on Jimmy Buffett Day, Aug. 30, and the following Labor Day Weekend. This initiative honors Jimmy, his legacy and his life and celebrates how he prioritized supporting others and focused on leaving the world a better place. The day of service will support Singing for Change, a nonprofit organization created by Jimmy in 1995, and other organizations worldwide.

THE GEORGIA CHAPTER OF THE NATIONAL MS SOCIETY PRESENTS: 2024 TASTE OF GENEROSITY: BOURBON + BOTANICALS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/15/24

Experience an Evening of Exceptional Spirits and Fundraising for a Cure: Tickets On Sale Now
Celebrate This Year’s Honorary Chair Dr. Ben Thrower Alongside 2024 Honorees Téa Hayes
and the Late Barry Bailey


Friday, Aug. 16 | Doors Open at 6 p.m., Official programming begins at 8:15 p.m. 
The Stave Room and ASW Whiskey Exchange | 199 Armour Dr. NE, Atlanta, GA 30324
VIP + General Tickets are on sale now. Visit the website for details + full event schedule. 



 The National MS Society is thrilled to present the 2024 Taste of Generosity: Bourbon + Botanicals in partnership with the beautiful and unique Stave Room and ASW Whiskey Exchange. Scheduled for Friday, Aug. 16, 2024, the event invites beverage lovers to gather and savor a wide range of distinct bourbons, botanical liquors, wines, beers and innovative zero-proof options. Taste of Generosity: Atlanta is not just a celebration of fine spirits – it’s a gathering with a purpose. Every dollar spent at the event will go towards powering cutting-edge research, advocating for change, and providing essential programs to enhance the lives of those affected by multiple sclerosis.

As ticketholders step into the Stave Room, they will be greeted by 18-foot ceilings and polished concrete floors that contribute to an ambiance of refined yet rustic urban charm. Inside, guests can explore the fully functioning, award-winning distillery while indulging in a full-service tasting room brimming with a variety of spirits and meticulously crafted cocktails and mocktails. Along the tasting trails, attendees can savor delicious, Southern-inspired food pairings designed to elevate their tasting experience. The event will also feature a bottle pull with the chance to win exclusive wines and liquors, exciting silent and live auctions with offerings from Atlanta United, local distilleries and more, all to support the Georgia Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

The event is co-chaired by Tara Murphy, an inspiring leader living with MS and the owner of the award-winning PR firm 360 Media and publisher of The Atlanta 100 who brings her passion and expertise to ensure a memorable evening. Beginning at 8:15 p.m., guests will gather to celebrate this year’s Honorary Chair, Dr. Ben Thrower, a renowned neurologist and Medical Director at the Andrew C. Carlos MS Institute at Shepherd Center. The evening will also honor Téa Hayes, a vibrant former Atlanta Falcons cheerleader living with MS, and the late Barry Bailey, the former lead guitarist for Atlanta Rhythm Section who lived with MS.

“I am honored and humbled to serve as the Honorary Chair for this event,” said Thrower. “For decades, the Andrew C. Carlos MS Institute at Shepherd Center has partnered with the Georgia Chapter of the National MS Society in serving our MS community. Through events like this, we will continue to improve the lives of those living with MS and move one step closer to a cure. Doing so through an evening of bourbon, food and music is the perfect blend of flavor and philanthropy.”

Guests attending the event can choose from various ticket levels, including ASW VIP+, VIP and Classic Admission, each offering different perks for early entry and access to unique tasting trails. With Classic Admission, guests will experience an unforgettable night on the Classic Tasting Trail, with the opportunity to sample a diverse selection of exceptional bourbons, wines and liquors from distinguished partners such as Longleaf distillery, Four Roses Bourbon, Wyoming Whiskey and more. For beer enthusiasts craft brews from Monday Night Brewing will be available to savor. VIP guests will enjoy all the delights of the Classic Tasting Trail, with the added privilege of sampling rare and special pours from distinguished partners like World Whiskey Society, Palm Bay International, Shortbarrel and Old Fourth Distillery. Plus, all ticketholders will receive a souvenir branded tasting cup to commemorate the experience.

The Barrel Proof presenting sponsors, Accenture and RNDC, have provided generous support instrumental in making this event possible. Visit the website for more information and to purchase tickets today.  

About The National Multiple Sclerosis Society: The National MS Society, founded in 1946, is the global leader of a growing movement dedicated to creating a world free of MS. The Society funds cutting-edge research for a cure, drives change through advocacy and provides programs and services to help people affected by MS live their best lives. Connect to learn more and get involved: NationalMSsociety.orgFacebookTwitterInstagramLinkedInYouTube or call 800-344-4867. 

BITE INTO BELONGING WITH SUGAR SHANE’S COOKIE FOR A CAUSE

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/6/24

All August Long

August is here, and Sugar Shane’s has unveiled its latest Cookies for a Cause creation: the Fosterdoodle. This feel-good snickerdoodle is all about sweetening lives and supporting Georgia Kids Belong, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the experiences and outcomes for kids and families in Georgia’s foster system. Throughout August, the award-winning Atlanta-based bakery will donate 100% of the cookie’s proceeds to Georgia Kids Belong and its “I Belong Project,” amplifying the voices of over 400 children in Georgia’s foster system waiting for families. The perfect blend of warm cinnamon and sugar, this ginormous cookie is available at all four Atlanta locations as well as for nationwide shipping during the entire month of August at sugarshanes.com. Visit Sugar Shane’s Gourmet Bakery in Atlanta at Midtown (398 14th Street Atlanta, GA 30318), Ponce City Market (675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE N 145 Atlanta, GA 30308), Sandy Springs (1110 Hammond Drive Suite 30 Atlanta, GA 30328), and Kennesaw (1635 Old 41 Hwy Ste 107 in Kennesaw, GA 30152). Stay connected on Instagram at @sugar_shanes and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/sugarshanesatl

FASHION FOR FURKIDS 2024

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/29/24

Tuesday, May 14 11am-4pm

Giaquinto Event Center

(5235 Union Hill Road, Cumming,
GA 30040)

Furkids Animal Rescue and Shelters will be hosting “Fashion for Furkids,” a fashion show like no other, on May 14 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at their headquarters property in the Giaquinto Event Center (5235 Union Hill Road, Cumming,
GA 30040). All funds raised will go to the life saving programs of Furkids, benefiting our communities most at risk animals.


“Fashion for Furkids” models aren’t just showcasing gorgeous articles of clothing, but will also be accompanied by adoptable dogs while on the catwalk. Furkids promises a memorable experience, blending the worlds of fashion, history, and compassion. Furkids is pleased to announce that renowned author and fashion historian Nancy Flaherty will be in attendance, and will give a special presentation. Nancy’s company, ‘HiddenGems with Nancy’, specializes in taking clients shopping in Paris, France, to find the hidden gems they have been searching for their whole lives.


Nancy and her husband adopted their dog Rocky from Furkids in 2013, and Nancy has a heart for philanthropy and especially animals. Nancy stated “Rocky has brought suchjoy to us, we want the rest of the Atlanta community to know that Furkids’ has joy for them too. Combining my love for fashion and style history with an event that supports the mission of Furkids will bring so much warmth to my heart”.


“Fashion for Furkids” attendees will enjoy an exclusive look at both vintage and contemporary styles featuring articles from Nancy’s personal collection, Dillards fashion, and unique finds from the Furkids Thrift Stores. Models from Forward, The
Agency, will be walking the catwalk in this one-of-a-kind fashion curation. Furkids Animal Rescue and Shelters has five thrift store locations throughout metro Atlanta where a large variety of items and clothes are donated. Oftentimes distinctive
and unique items find their way onto their clothing racks. Sales from the thrift stores contribute over 30% of Furkids’ annual operation costs, enabling them to continue their life saving work.


All are invited to attend this special event, and Furkids openly welcomes the public to experience their gorgeous garden property at Furkids headquarters. A $75 ticket includes royal tea, live music, and access to an exciting silent auction of handbags from designers such as Chanel, Jimmy Choo, and Kate Spade. Read more and purchase your tickets at https://furkids.org/tickets/fashion-for-furkids.

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.

“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 Treasuresa 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.

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.