PUTTING THE FUN IN FUNDRAISING . . . 

is not always easy. There are so many good causes out there, it can be hard to choose which ones to support. But we always love it when folks get creative. In particular, there are a few that have come across our desk in the last week that go beyond the standard fundraising methods:

EGBOK
One of our favorite instructor's from college still keeps in touch. We have always loved learning from her, inside and outside of the classroom. For the past few years, she's devoted a few months out of each year to volunteer with EGBOK in Cambodia, where they use hospitality training as a means to help young adults become professionally and financially self-sufficient. She's helping raise $40k to fund their new teaching cafe, but instead of hitting up high dollar donors or throwing fancy parties, they've developed a mode of simultaneously raising funds and sharing Cambodian culture in a meaningful way. She works with hosts to throw intimate dinner parties (between 10 - 15 friends) serving traditional Cambodian dishes. People come together to share a night of food culture - and in turn learn about the mission of the organization. All proceeds go toward the fundraising efforts. If you are interested in getting involved (by hosting a gathering / helping at one / donating / or just learning more), we are happy to connect you.

KITE'S NEST / RIVER CITY GARDEN
One of our favorite local organizations sent out a call for materials for their community garden. While giving cash is traditional (and as easy as the click of a button these days) it's nice to be able to give other things of value - in this case seeds, seedlings, perennial herbs and flowers that can be divided from one's own garden, and other garden tools (such as hand tools, buckets, soil amendments, and hoses). If you have some bounty to share, please reach out to them via their website.

FUNDRAISING THROUGH 'FAMILY DINNER'
My father-in-law - who is originally from Ecuador - loves nothing more than convivial gatherings and communal meals. His favorite each spring is a crawfish boil. There's nothing better than gathering a bunch of folks around one long table, all elbow deep in Lousiana's little lobsters. He's opening this year's gathering to the public, with all ticket proceeds going toward the Ecuadorian earthquake relief efforts - specifically to purchase emergency tent units that help preserve family unity and community life. If you're in Brooklyn this Sunday May 1st, he would love to see you there. Anyone from afar can still contribute via the event page.

In the spirit of giving,

Taylor & Dorothy
Co-Founders, Good Food Jobs