There are many things I love about Fresno. Some of my family is here, my friends are here, my church, my support group-this is where I’m from. This is home.
One characteristic of Fresno that I truly love is that it’s very diverse. I mean, we’re no San Francisco or New York, but we still live in a city filled with culture. (In my opinion.) Some of the many events I like to attend are events that revolve around cultures that are different from my own (i.e. the Greekfest). So, when I was told about this event that’s happening next month, I got super excited. (Mostly at the thought of trying new foods.)
The event is called the West Coast Mennonite Relief Sale and Auction. It will be held April 10th and 11th at Fresno Pacific University. The West Coast Mennonite Sale is an awesome family fun event with lots of food, an auction of handmade quilts and other items, Fair Trade gifts, and an area just for kids (Kid’s World). The event starts on Saturday, the 11th, with a run/walk event for all ages and abilities. All the proceeds from the event benefit Mennonite Central Committee, which provides relief, development, and peace to those around the world in need. The MCC seeks to eliminate violence, poverty, human trafficking, and ethnic cleansing while providing resources, health care, education, food, and shelter. This is extremely important to me. This event is not just about having a good time, but it’s about raising money so that others can enjoy life as well. I love how those in the valley can come together to help others in need. This is what we’re called to do, right?
In preparation for this event, many women have been gathering at the North Fresno Church to make quilts to donate. This year the ladies are hoping to donate around 150 quilts. 150!!!! Can you believe that? I have a friend who makes quilts, and they are so beautiful. Quilt making is an art, and I’d love to own one of these pieces of art. If you want to read more about what these amazing women are doing, check out this article.
Here’s some of what you’ll need to know for the event. It’s free to enter and park on Fresno Pacific’s campus. Yay! Here’s a list of some of the shopping you can do, as well as some foods to eat, and events to check out. Also, if you’re interested in the run/walk, there’s still time to enter! You can enter pre-register before April 6th. After that the price changes, but you are still able to register. You can actually register all the way up to the day of the event. So get on your running boots! 😉
Shopping
Country Store
Silent Auction
Collectibles
Used Books
Fair Trade Items
Plants
Over 500 quilts, afghans and comforters
Art Exhibit and Sale
Handmade Craft Items
Events
Zwiebach Baking
Children’s Activities
Live Music
Car Display
2-Mile and 10K Run
Food
Ethnic Foods
Fresh Pies and Breads
Homemade Ice Cream
German Sausages
Fritters
Soups
Schedule of Events
Friday, April 10
4 p.m. Quilt Preview
Priced Comforter Sale Open
Food and Shops Open
Silent Auction Open
6 p.m. Opening Ceremonies
Limited Auction
7 p.m. Silent Auction Ends
Saturday, April 11
7 a.m. Run for Relief
9 a.m. Quilts, Afghans, Comforters, Specialties, and Silent Auction
10 a.m. MCC Alumni Gathering
11:30 a.m. Verenika Lunch
Noon Feature Auction
1 p.m. Auction for Children
Silent Auction Ends
3-3:30 p.m. Surplus Food and Supplies Auction
I know that sometimes I live in my own optimistic world, where I think that even the littlest of things matter, but you know, I like being optimistic. I like believing that the things I do make a positive impact on others. This event may not seem huge, but it is. I don’t know about you, but I’d prefer to spend my money somewhere I know it’s going to make a difference. So, if you’re able, check out this event. It will be fun, and your money will go to a good cause. 🙂
I was going to go to Breakfast with the Animals on the 11th, but I think I’m going to pass this year and head to the West Coast Mennonite Sale instead. (Shhhh…Don’t tell the people at the zoo, because I still love them! Or better yet, maybe I could do both?) If you’re going to be there, let me know, I’d love to come say hi!
PS-If you go, share your pictures with us!
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stewed01 says
things I love to eat @ the MCC sale:
home made ice cream.
fritters.
sausage & peppers sandwich
also, buy at least one german sausage & one raisin sausage to cook later
more fritters.
Jason Farris says
you know I had never heard of this event and a client shared it with me so… excited to be giving it a go. Homemade Ice Cream and sausage and peppers sound amazing
stewed01 says
my mennonite friends love the zwiebach, although it’s not my favorite. but usually there are several other really good things to eat as well (sometimes borscht, home made pies, etc). can you tell i go for the food?
the used book sale is worth checking out, but the longer it has gone on, the lower the chance of finding some gem.
Kim Kliewer Becker says
Great write-up Tiffiny. Thanks for spreading the word about this awesome event. My kids love going and it is a big family tradition for us. The foods are all so good – something for everyone. The quilts are amazing. And it’s all for such a good cause it makes spending money on a fun family day that much more worth it. Win win!
Tiffiny says
Thanks Kim!! I really can’t wait to go this year! 🙂