By L.V. Kegley
On the Virginia Peninsula, there is an organization dedicated to raising funds for the fight against hunger. Locally based, this branch of Empty Bowls brings artistry and charity together. This collaboration culminates in an annual fundraising event. Established in 2012, this fundraiser incorporates a myriad of art, entertainment and soup. While people and companies donate throughout the year, Empty Bowls Virginia Peninsula (EMVP) intends to expand its outreach. By potentially organizing more frequent events, the current committee members hope to foster further partnership with the community.
Known for filling all its spots, the annual fundraiser is possible through a wide variety of volunteer work and donations. Mark Butcher, a local pottery artist and regular participant in the event, described how the community comes together to create the titular empty bowls. Within the pottery scene, word of mouth is a popular avenue. Through this, Butcher began donating some of his pieces to Empty Bowls. As he states, “it started as a bit of a selfish thing. I had all this pottery and nowhere to put it.” Continuing his involvement, Butcher eventually began promoting the event as a volunteer. He has begun crafting beer mugs as well. After all, while it may be tempting to have a bowl of beer, the pottery pints are a buzzing addition.
Alongside pottery and ceramic work, other forms of art took part in the fundraiser, too. During this year’s fundraiser, there were artists painting in real time. With a DJ providing the music, many were moved to dance as well. And there was a wide variety of culinary arts.
Each year, there are groups dedicated to donating the soup needed to fill each empty bowl. During the fundraiser, guests taste the many varieties of soups and vote for their favorite. At the end of the night, the winner receives the coveted golden ladle award along with bestowed bragging rights. According to Judy Green, president of the Empty Bowls Virginia Peninsula Committee, the fundraiser creates a mosaic of local creativity and generosity.
Each attendee at the fundraiser also ends the night with a bowl of his or her choosing. As Cathy Walsh, secretary of the EBVP Committee, described the spirit of the event, “when you take that bowl home, it serves as a reminder that there are always bowls that need to be filled in our community.” Through the years, Walsh has witnessed a lot of returning guests. After obtaining ownership of the Historic Post Office in Hampton, Walsh has provided a consistent venue for the annual event.
While the event itself continues to evolve, the core of Empty Bowls remains the same. The nonprofit’s mission to combat local hunger comes from a communal foundation. Beyond the annual fundraiser, Butcher discusses the permeating culture of Empty Bowls Virginia Peninsula. “We’re a small community, and I was quickly accepted into this community and organization. We have a bond outside of the event, through what we do as a hobby or profession. Getting involved and becoming an active member of the community makes it better through the funds we raise.”
TO THE POINT:
Empty Bowls Virginia Peninsula
Address: P.O. Box 2422 Poquoson, VA. 23662
Contact: www.emptybowlsvapeninsula.org/contact.php
Email: emptybowlsvapeninsula@gmail.com
Website: www.emptybowlsvapeninsula.org
