3rd Annual “Fill A Plate For Hunger” Blossoms at Botanic Gardens

Just like a favorite restaurant, everything on the menu of this year’s Fill A Plate For Hunger fundraiser combined to cook up a supremely delicious experience. Event-goers savored the pleasant end-of-summer weather, the stunning Denver Botanic Gardens environment and, of course, the plethora of scrumptious delicacies that were provided nonstop. On Wednesday, Sept. 10, more than 400 guests were treated to simple delights at the third annual event—with every single one served “well done.”

Tables in the open-air tent had a gorgeous view of the Botanic Gardens’ amphitheater

The evening began under warm, sunny skies with a VIP reception in the Orangery, immediately followed by a second reception for all that featured libations tastings, passed and served appetizers, and general good will served up among guests and vendors alike. Event-goers had the opportunity to “Pick A Posey” for $25, with mystery prizes corresponding to flower numbers. Soon, preparations were finalized next door and everyone made the short walk to the adjoining open-air amphitheater tent, where tables were set for food and fun.

Arlan Preblud with CBS4’s Ed Greene, event emcee

Amiable emcee Ed Greene, of CBS4, presided over a well-paced program that provided entertainment, enlightenment and needed funds for host beneficiary We Don’t Waste. Comedian-journalist Adam Cayton-Holland led an action-packed live auction that not only garnered $75,000 for the cause, but also had guests in stitches with his comedic bits and witty comments. Pam Bonneau walked off with a ton of goodies after her number was drawn on stage as the Pick A Posey grand-prize winner. The program also featured remarks by We Don’t Waste founder and executive director Arlan Preblud and board president Bruce Kirchhoff, who both commented on the growth of the event and the support of its guests.

The audience was riveted to TV screens as they watched an insightful video on hunger in Denver titled “This is Our City,” shown before a call for donations that was generously answered. At the program’s conclusion, guests were treated to a spectrum of small plates full of culinary delights from Denver’s best chefs and restaurants. After the event, everyone had the chance to stroll the grounds and enjoy the spectacular art of Dale Chihuly, well-lit and designed to enhance the permanent floral displays.

Event-goers had the chance to stroll through the Botanic Gardens and savor the beauty of Dale Chihuly’s artistic creations.

We Don’t Waste is committed to reducing food waste with innovative practices that recover food from venues, events, caterers, restaurants and other major food distributors. The resulting products are delivered to community-based, non-profit agencies that provide food to vulnerable populations—children, individuals, veterans, seniors, families and the homeless. Collectively, these Denver agencies serve more than 5,000 individuals each day. Ultimately, We Don’t Waste serves as the link between food sources and the underserved at no cost to donor or recipient agency. Since 2009, the organization has provided 1,145,791 meals and saved over 426 tons of nutritious food from landfills. For more information, please visit http://www.wedontwaste.org.