Every year, a few weeks before Thanksgiving, we like to host our own gathering, in the spirit of giving back and giving thanks.  We call this little event A Night of Bliss. 

We call upon our community members, fellow businesses, friends and family, and we throw a party.  There is food, music, dancing, games and endless, (yes, I did say endless) Coconut Bliss ice cream sundaes. 

Imagine a heaping bowl of your favorite flavor, or flavors, all decked out in vegan caramel, fudge, roasted nuts, goji berries, or whatever it is that brings you bliss.  In a word, it is awesome.

Now, imagine that you do this surrounded by your closest friends, and friends that you haven't seen in awhile, as you enjoy the musical stylings of local bands, other delicious foodstuffs,  organic chai tea, coffee and more.  Sound like fun?  It most certainly does.

Here's where it gets even better: you are raising funds for two local non-profits that are working hard to promote nature-based education and maintain and sustain our environment; namely, School Garden Project of Lane County and Beyond Toxics.  These were the beneficiaries of this year's A Night of Bliss, and they were overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from our shared communities.

From donations collected at the door and bids made on more than a hundred silent auction and raffle items, all of which were generously donated by our fellow businesses, together we raised over $8500.00 for these two deserving organizations.

We hosted nearly 500 friends and it was by far, our most successful event to date.  Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to the UUCE, who graciously opened their doors to us, the many, many local businesses that donated goods, services and volunteers to make it all happen, and of course our enthusiastic supporters.  We are truly humbled by the level of commitment from you all. 

We can't wait to do it again next year.  Until then, we wish you all the beauty and warmth that the season has to offer and many, many blissful days.