Green Corn Project Grow Local/Eat Global

11th Annual Fundraiser at Boggy Creek Farm
3414 Lyons Rd.
Sunday, Oct. 25, noon-4pm
www.greencornproject.org

The Green Corn Project, one of Austin's most beloved nonprofits, will hold its annual fundraiser this Sunday at Boggy Creek Farm. The Green Corn Project's mission is as practical as it is idealistic: to help Central Texans gain access to nutritious, affordable food by helping those in need install sustainable organic vegetable gardens. Since its inception in 1998, the Green Corn Project has installed more than 160 organic vegetable gardens in backyards, schoolyards, and community centers. The project also runs popular workshops for those who wish to start their own gardens or simply volunteer.

This once-a-year event provides nearly all of the funding the Green Corn Project needs. "We are an all-volunteer organization," says Marsha Mann, the project's sponsor coordinator. "That makes for a very 'pure' nonprofit, financially: We have virtually no operating costs. One hundred percent of donations go directly into the ground!"

This year, a bounty of outstanding food and drink will be provided by more than 25 of Austin's finest restaurants, caterers, and purveyors. The fundraiser will also feature cooking classes on Boggy Creek's historic back porch with accomplished local chefs Beth Pav of Cooking by Design, Rosa Vera of the Natural Epicurean at Casa de Luz, and Jam Sanichat of Thai Fresh. Meanwhile, live acoustic music by the Lonesome Heroes, Melancholy Ramblers, Chris Meyer, and Chris Brecht will be showcased on the front porch. There will also be a silent auction with donated art, museum and theatre passes, gift certificates, classes, services, and getaways from some of Austin's favorite local establishments, along with dollar-a-minute chair massages by Brimm Walker.

This is one of the best foodie event values going, given the prestige of the chefs and contributors; the focus on fresh, organic ingredients; and the affordable price. Advance tickets are $35, available at Natural Gardener, Boggy Creek Farm, Wheatsville Co-op, and www.greencornproject.org. At the gate, tickets will be $40. Children under 12 are free.