Last night, the POP Project met with 49 of our biggest supporters to enjoy a very special holiday dinner.
At 6:30pm, we met at Rhubarb’s private event space on Pack Square in downtown Asheville. After mingling over appetizers, everyone sat to begin the meal. Four-time James Beard Award-nominated Chef John Fleer greeted the crowd. Along with an introduction of the restaurant, Chef Fleer led the introductions of Catawba Brewing and Gaining Ground Farm, our partners for the evening.
While the salad course was being served, POP Project’s executive director, James MacKenzie stood and said a few words. He reminded the attendees that POP is a 100% volunteer-led organization, and our mission could not be met without the help of our community and supporters like those attending the dinner. Notably, he told them that each ticket purchased, though only $79, will translate to $150 in free books distributed within our local community.
Then, everyone turned their attention to the exquisite four-course meal. Each course incorporated local produce grown on Gaining Ground Farm and was expertly paired with one of Catawba’s craft brews. It was hard to top such a delicious dinner, but the conversation came close. Throughout the evening, we had the opportunity to meet a number of new people and make new friends—all with a love of fine food and improving literacy.
Though the event took place in mid-December, it truly was a thanksgiving meal for the POP Project. We are so thankful for the opportunity to partner with such wonderful community entities as Rhubarb, Catawba Brewing, and Gaining Ground Farm. We are thankful for the wonderful attendees who supported our cause while enjoying a wonderful meal. And we’re thankful that we work within such a fun and worthy mission to provide access to books for those in need.
You can view a few photos of the evening below. Click over to Facebook for the full event gallery.
More Ways to Support POP
If you missed our holiday dinner, there is still another way to support the POP Project this giving season while gaining some great stuff for yourself in return.
Give!Local is Mountain Xpress’ online fundraising initiative benefiting 47 local nonprofits through micro-donations and exposure, including the POP Project. But nonprofits aren’t the only one reaping rewards. Donate $20+ and at the first of the year you’ll receive a coupon book with over $100 worth of great area freebies and discounts from High Five Coffee, The Hop, Frank’s Roman Pizza, and dozens more.
Click Below and Donate through Give!Local Now!