Portland, Oregon based Animal Aid recently hosted their annual Whiskers, Wine & Whisky gala, and this year thanks to a Food for Thought event grant, it was an all-vegan affair! Animal Aid is a nonprofit, no-kill animal rescue and welfare organization that helps companion animals in need; actively promotes spay and neuter programs to reduce overpopulation; and educates the public by promoting respect for all animals, the ethic of compassion, and the need to be kind and responsible stewards.
On the savory vegan menu: Entrées—Eggplant osso buco and za’tar spiced kebabs. Sides and hors-d'oeuvres—Root vegetable salad, house-made salad rolls with sweet chili dipping sauce, and vegetable crudité. The meal was topped off with a delicious cranberry pear crisp for dessert.
According to Director of Operations, Paige España, the event was a resounding success, doubling its fundraising goal from the prior year, and eliciting lots of positive feedback. “We're… learning how to pick vegan dishes that have a wide appeal so that those people on the fence can have a good (perhaps surprisingly good) experience and hopefully be more open to incorporating more vegan foods in their diet and more willing to consider a vegan lifestyle overall,” said España when reflecting on the event. She also mentioned that for their next event, they would look for a heartier second entrée option (in addition to the eggplant dish). This is a great tip for event planners working with caterers, as guests expect plant-based entrées to be just as delectable and filling as more traditional options.
Congratulations, Animal Aid, on a successful event showcasing compassion to all animals!
