This column is a shout-out to volunteers.
I was recently part of the organizational team for Marie Wilkinson Food Pantry’s annual Harvest Dinner. The five-course dinner in mid-August showcases food harvested from Marie’s Garden across the street from the Pantry on Highland Avenue. Incredible dishes are then created by local restaurants from the provided harvested ingredients.
Altiro Latin Fusion, Spartan Ale House, Katich Breads, Reuland Food Service, and Alice’s Corner all donated menu items to serve approximately 120 guests. Wyckwood House and Charity Blooms were partners for the event to provide cocktails and charcuterie, respectively.
The kitchen and waitstaff were all volunteers. They were seamless. It takes a lot of work to serve more than 100 guests for a sitdown meal. The efficiency of the Pantry staff members along with approximately 20 volunteers made for a wonderful evening.
The Venue, a live music listening space in downtown Aurora, is almost entirely run by volunteers. From bartenders to security, locals step up to create a welcoming venue and a great experience. There are at least a handful of volunteers at every show.
Volunteers are a large part of an event’s success. From setting up an event for hundreds or thousands to helping the event to disappear and make everything normal again, volunteers are an incredible asset.
I first started recruiting locals to help at Alley Art Festival. A network of amazing volunteers has grown over the years. I am grateful for everyone who lends even one hour of their time to help at an event.
It’s true that many hands make light work, but they make an event possible. Thanks to all of the volunteers for helping to make our community shine.
Here’s a list of upcoming, local events that I’m excited about:
Saturday, Aug. 26: Alley Art Festival from noon to 5 p.m. on Water Street Mall and Downer Place, Aurora.
Friday, Sept. 1: First Fridays throughout downtown Aurora.
Sunday, Oct. 15: Sugar Skull City begins in downtown Aurora.
Sunday, Oct. 22: The Neighbor Project Gala from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The Venue, 21 S. Broadway, Aurora.
Marissa Amoni is the owner of Marissa Bright, a public relations and event management company specializing in shining the light on nonprofits and small businesses. Follow her on Instagram @marissashinesbright.