On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long welcomes Pam Martinez, executive director of the Sauk Valley Food Bank, to discuss the upcoming Food for Thought Trivia Night for a Cause.
The event will take place Friday, November 7th at Woodland Arts Academy, bringing community members together for an evening of trivia, auctions, costumes, and fundraising to support the food bank’s ongoing mission.
Celebrating 25 Years of Community Support
For a quarter of a century, the Sauk Valley Food Bank has worked to help address food insecurity throughout the region. Martinez said the organization is proud to celebrate this milestone while continuing to meet the needs of the communities it serves.
Although Martinez has been with the organization for five years, the food bank’s impact extends back 25 years, including periods when local families have faced significant challenges.
Today, the organization reaches seven counties and supports 36 active food pantries every month. The food bank helps provide food and resources to these pantries, making it possible to serve individuals and families throughout the region.
Food for Thought Trivia Night for a Cause
Food for Thought Trivia Night for a Cause is a new fundraising event for the food bank’s team. Woodland Arts Academy graciously offered its space for the November gathering, providing an indoor location for the community to come together.
The trivia theme will focus on television and movies from the past 25 years, with a few questions about the history of the Sauk Valley Food Bank potentially mixed in.
Teams are encouraged to dress up as their favorite television or movie characters from that time period. Prizes will be awarded for the best team costumes, along with recognition for the team that wins the trivia competition.
The event is designed to give participants an enjoyable night out while supporting an organization that has spent decades helping its neighbors.
The food bank’s previous fundraiser, Let’s Flamingo, was held on the organization’s lawn in 2023. Martinez said the event benefited from beautiful weather, and the team is excited to bring the community together again with a new concept.
Auctions, Treats, and More
In addition to trivia, attendees can look forward to several fundraising activities throughout the evening.
A silent auction will feature baskets and other donated items. A live dessert auction will allow guests to bid on sweet treats prepared by members of the local community.
The event will also include a drink auction featuring donated trays of alcoholic beverages. Each tray will offer four different drinks and can be purchased for a table or by an individual looking to add something special to the evening.
A cash bar will also be available, along with popcorn from a local popcorn business and other treats for guests to enjoy while competing in trivia.
Community sponsorships are another important part of making the event possible. Martinez expressed appreciation for the sponsors who have already stepped forward and encouraged additional businesses and individuals interested in supporting the fundraiser to contact the food bank.
How the Fundraiser Helps the Food Bank
The proceeds from Food for Thought Trivia Night for a Cause will go directly to the Sauk Valley Food Bank to support its operations.
Funds raised will help the organization purchase food and cover essential operating expenses, including electricity, so it can continue providing resources to its network of pantries.
Martinez explained that the cost of staple food items has increased again, creating additional challenges as the organization works to keep its shelves stocked. Fundraisers like this one help the food bank continue purchasing the supplies needed to serve its communities.
With seven counties and 36 active food pantries relying on its support, the organization depends on community involvement to sustain its work.
The evening will also provide an opportunity to recognize the food bank’s original founder. Martinez has invited the founder to attend, with plans for a special recognition if they can be there.
Event Details and Tickets
Food for Thought Trivia Night for a Cause will take place Friday, November 7, at Woodland Arts Academy.
- Location: Woodland Arts Academy
- Doors open: 5 p.m.
- Trivia begins: 5:30 p.m.
- Expected conclusion: Approximately 9:30 p.m.
- Individual tickets: $50 per person
- Table purchase: $350
Tickets can be purchased online using the event’s QR code or by bringing a check to the Sauk Valley Food Bank office, where tickets can be provided in person. Table purchases are also available.
Community members interested in sponsoring the event can contact Martinez for information about the available sponsorship opportunities.
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