Help a good cause at the Empty Bowls fall fundraiser

Empty Bowls of Douglas County, NV, Inc. strives to eliminate hunger through year-round bowl making with local students, artisans, and community groups, all in preparation for their annual autumn event. This is the eighth year for the fundraiser, which is 4:30-8 p.m. Oct. 1 at St. Gall Catholic Church, 1343 Centerville Lane in Gardnerville.

A hand-crafted ceramic bowl, meal and dessert are included in the $20 price, with meals supplied by various restaurants and organizations throughout our area.

A silent auction and raffle will take place, and door prizes will be awarded. All proceeds from the fall fundraiser directly benefit the Carson Valley Community Food Closet, whose mission is to achieve food security in Douglas County.

The local Empty Bowls chapter is part of an international effort that began as a class project at a Michigan high school in 1990. Art teacher John Hartom wanted students to take part in a local food drive and had an idea for them to create ceramic bowls, invite faculty to a luncheon, and request donations in exchange for a meal of soup and bread.

During the staff lunch, Hartom and his wife, Lisa Blackburn (also an art educator), spoke about hunger and reminded attendees that while they were not hungry after having just eaten a meal, many others still had empty bowls. Attendees were invited to keep their empty ceramic bowls to remind them of others who were less fortunate.

Since that time, Empty Bowls has expanded to include chapters and events all around the world, all in support of food-related charities (emptybowls.com). The nonprofit Douglas County chapter, run entirely through volunteer efforts, has been active since 2014 and was incorporated in 2018.

President Lois Elliott expressed gratitude for the community’s generosity and support of past events and encouraged everyone to come out for this year’s festivities.

Organizers are looking for volunteers who are able to assist with event setup and takedown as well as food serving. For more information about the event or to inquire about volunteer opportunities, contact Elliott at 775-901-6309 or EBDCNV vice-president Camille Howard at 775-783-0009.

Pet adoptions and support for shelter animals

Douglas County Animal Services and Douglas Animal Welfare Group host an adoption event for cats and kittens 1-3 p.m. Saturday at the shelter, 921 Dump Road in Gardnerville.

With an aim to clear the Douglas County shelter and find loving homes for a number of dogs currently housed there, DAWG is covering adoption fees for most shelter dogs through the remainder of this month. Contact the shelter for more information about which dogs are eligible for this program.

Arrival of pumpkin season

Thursday marks the start of fall, which means it’s officially pumpkin season. Pumpkin is rich in fiber and contains beneficial vitamins and minerals that promote health in humans and dogs alike. Animal Services is asking for donations of canned pumpkin puree as a wholesome and tasty treat for its canine residents. A comprehensive wish list of other items needed at the shelter can be found on Amazon at: amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2ASJ8B171WNHX.

Questions about any of these programs may be directed to the shelter at 775-782-9061. Hours are 1-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday.

Amy Roby can be reached at ranchosroundup@hotmail.com.