In 2013, GleanKY launched its first fundraising event. Knowing that GleanKY’s unique strength lay within its partnerships, Burgers & Beats was born: a picnic-style event that brought together the food of Chef Ouita Michel’s crew, the music of a local band, and the many supporters GleanKY had developed relationships with during its first two years of existence.
The event boasted the tag line “making sure everyone eats,” and a crowd gathered at Wallace Station in Versailles, KY, to celebrate the successes of GleanKY’s efforts. The 75 attendees lounged on blankets and in chairs, danced to live music, participated in a silent auction, and laughed through games like corn hole and ring toss. The gleaning garden was the biggest hit: several of the youngest attendees burrowed into the patch of beans and harvested until their hands were full.
In 2014, the group reunited for a bigger and better picnic. There were more games, more burgers, a larger gleaning garden, and a new addition – Crank & Boom Ice Cream! More than 150 people attended the event, and many provided glowing reviews. Karen H. explained, “We thoroughly enjoyed Burgers & Beats — delicious food, great people, and fun music! My favorite part was seeing the young children excitedly gleaning the vegetable garden for such a worthy cause.” When a young attendee was asked about her favorite part of the evening, she replied, “The ice cream!”
This year, GleanKY’s third annual Burgers & Beats will take place on Sunday, July 19th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Wallace Station in Versailles, KY. Join us for live music provided by Quintessence, games and activities hosted by our partner feeding agencies, a delicious meal prepared by Chef Ouita Michel, and dessert provided by Crank & Boom. You won’t want to miss it!
This event provides GleanKY with 10% of its operating budget. Each ticket sold ensures another gleaning trip is made, reducing food waste and increasing access to fresh produce among Central Kentucky’s food-insecure. Order now for your special discounted tickets: $25 for adults and $10 for youth ages 5-12. Visit GleanKY.org/burgers-beats to purchase. Tickets will also be available at the door for $35.
