One Bowl at a Time

Carlisle Arts Learning Center Celebrates the 30th Anniversary of Empty Bowls.

The arts change lives and sometimes they do so one bowl at a time.  Since 1992, the Carlisle Arts Learning Center (CALC) and Dickinson College have partnered annually to raise awareness about food insecurity and funds for Project SHARE through a very special event: Empty Bowls.  The premise of this unique community event is simple:  over 1600 families in our community face food insecurity each day and the arts are a powerful way to create dialogue, increase understanding, and build community. At this very special—and popular—fundraiser, attendees choose a handmade ceramic bowl and then share a modest meal of soup and bread together—a symbol of a common meal for many members of our community.  Every bowl is handcrafted by artists of all ages throughout our community who want to make a difference.  Attendees keep their bowl as a reminder of the event and its message.

“This year, our 30th anniversary, we are switching things up!” said Becky Richeson, Executive Director of Carlisle Arts Learning Center.  “To truly showcase Project SHARE, to truly see their mission in action, and to further engage our community, we decided to hold Empty Bowls at Project SHARE and feature soups from area partners.  Sage Café, Spoons, the Project SHARE kitchen, and Red Tomato Farm will provide an array of fresh homemade soups.”

The band, By the Way, will ensure a lively atmosphere at this year’s event.  CALC coordinates the event and oversees the creation of approximately 300 bowls, hand-thrown and glazed by local artists.  Dickinson College students will create bowls and will assist with “day-of” event details.  M&T Bank is generously sponsoring the event again this year.

Project SHARE is a welcoming host and sees the benefits of welcoming guests into the heart of their operation.  “We look forward to this event every year,” said Bob Weed, CEO of Project SHARE, “but having everyone here will give them the opportunity to really see what we do and where we do it.  This is where we work every day to bring our Vision to life….Nourishing our Community…Awakening Hope.”

“I estimate that over the past 29 years Empty Bowls has raised over $85,000 for Project SHARE—this is our community coming together to put the arts into action,” Richeson said. “We have a lot to celebrate this year.”

All proceeds benefit Project SHARE to assist the more than 1600 families facing food insecurity.

Empty Bowls will take place on Monday, March 21, 2022, from 6:00 pm-7:30 p.m. at Project SHARE’s headquarters at 5 North Orange Street, Suite 4.   Tickets are for sale now but sell out quickly!  You may purchase tickets for $25 each at the Carlisle Arts Learning Center, 38 W. Pomfret Street, or online at www.carlislearts.org

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