Thanksgiving, an Expression of Gratitude

Bob Kasieta, Board President

We’ve all heard the story – the Pilgrims in what is now the Commonwealth of Virginia in 1619 gave thanks for safe travels to a new world and a tradition was reborn in a new land. Each year, we celebrate this milestone. It is the start of the holiday season, a pause in the tumult of our lives, a time of reflection. Each of us has reasons for gratitude. None of us have perfect lives, but there is cause for thankfulness in every life.

How do we express our gratitude? Holiday gifts signal affection, and gratefulness. A simple “thank you” voices appreciation to those who help us on our journey. Unexpressed gratitude is an empty vessel.

At BPNN, we show gratitude to our community with a renewed commitment to fighting poverty. This year, the end of pandemic-era assistance produced staggering increases in the number of neighbors we serve in our food pantry. Still, fatigue is not an option. We rise to the challenge and rededicate ourselves to doing even more because more is required. We are in the early planning stages for expansion of our building. This will provide additional warehouse and administrative space.

Please consider how you might join this noble cause. In coming months, we will seek your help with a capital campaign to fund the expansion. We will call on you to express your gratitude for all you have been given by yet again sharing with neighbors in a very meaningful way.

And even though BPNN is growing, we remain committed to doing our work with an all-volunteer force, which is the greatest expression of gratitude.

Best wishes to you and your loved ones for the happiest of Thanksgivings. May you experience the joy this season can bring. Thank you for all you do.

Bob

Tis the Season for Giving

We are grateful for the many local businesses, organizations and faith groups that are hosting fundraising events and food drives throughout the months of November and December. Here are few to note:

Wisconsin Brewing & Lake Louie Crawlers for a Cause

With each crowler purchased in November, $3 will be donated to BPNN.

Woodman’s Check Out Hunger

When you round up your purchase at Woodman’s, the money is set aside to help us purchase food to fill in the gaps.

Area Food Drives & Collection Points

• Verona Area High School food drive at Millers Supermarket through Dec. 20
• Verona Police Department food drive collecting at Festival Foods
• Scouting for Food
• Verona Post Office
• Wisconsin Veterans Museum

Community Meal 

Dec. 2 & 16

Saturdays from 11:30am-12:45pm

All welcome, no registration required! Watch BPNN's Facebook page for the week's menu.

Family Portraits by Jesse Charles

Saturday, Dec 2

Photographer Jesse Charles will take complimentary family photos during the

Dec. 2 Community Meal. Doors to the Kasieta Center will open at 10:00 AM. No advance registration required. Photos available for pickup at BPNN after Jan. 1st

New Volunteer Orientation 

Openings are left on the following dates:

Thursdays, Dec. 7, 14 & 21 from 1:30-3pm

Volunteers are required to attend a 90-minute orientation, which includes an overview of the organization and volunteer jobs, instructions to sign-up for shifts, and a tour of the building. Registration is required.

Register at www.bpnn.org/volunteer

Winter Farmers Market

Sunday, Nov. 19 - Live Music Provided by Chente Medina

Sunday, Dec. 3 - Live Music Provided by Twila Jean

Sunday, Dec. 17 - Live Music Provided by Wendy Markus

10am-1pm

The Verona Downtown Farmer's Market moves indoors to the Kasieta Center this fall. The event features market vendors, live music, and food truck. See their website for more details.

Holiday Volunteer Open House

Sunday, Dec. 3 from 4 - 6pm

Time for holiday spirit, live music and lots of delicious appetizers & desserts by Mad City Chefs. There will be a short program at 5pm. 



The Gig Economy: Risks & Rewards Workshop

Tuesday, Dec. 5 from 6-8pm

If you are interested in working as a freelance, contract or gig worker, this workshop is for you. These jobs come come with rewards but also risks. Assess whether this work is a good fit with a checklist on how to choose the right “gigs” and how to protect yourself from firms that may not have your best interest.

ChopChop Family Cooking Club

Sunday, Dec. 10 - Baked Apples & Chai (In Spanish)

This Sunday afternoon cooking and nutrition class is geared towards kids 6 and up and each week features a different recipe. Classes are from 1-2:00 pm in the Prairie Kitchen. Information and online registration: https://www.bpnn.org/cooking-classes