Bowls for BrainPower fund-raiser is set for Nov. 16

The 14th annual Bowls for BrainPower fund-raiser is set for Thursday, Nov. 16 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the main atrium of Diamondhead Education Center, 200 W. Burnsville Pkwy, in Burnsville-Eagan-Savage School District 191.

This annual fundraiser supports BrainPower in a Backpack, a largely student-supported community service program providing weekend meals to preschool, elementary and middle school students in need. BrainPower, which is funded entirely with donations, currently sends food home with more than 725 children each weekend during the school year in District 191.

Like in past years, attendees of Bowls for BrainPower may make a free-will donation and pick out a handmade pottery creation, some of which were crafted by BHS Students. Back again this year, attendees can also receive a cup of soup for their donation, sponsored by Valley Natural Foods, Kwik Trip and other local restaurants. 

This year, there will also be an online Best of Show Silent Auction, featuring 20 unique pottery items, running Nov. 16-30, as well as a raffle of themed baskets donated from One91 schools, families and community organizations. Bring in five or more reusable grocery bags to receive five free raffle tickets. 

The event has raised more than $100,000 to support BrainPower in a Backpack since its inception in 2009. Participants can also donate via the Bowls for BrainPower website. The goal this year is to raise more than $15,000. Donations to BrainPower via District 191 are tax deductible, and all proceeds are designated to purchase food for BrainPower in a BackPack.

Bowls for BrainPower is a collaboration between the Burnsville High School art department, District 191 Community Education Youth Services Program, and District 191 elementary and middle school art teachers. BrainPower in a Backpack, which relies on Burnsville High School students and community volunteers, serves all District 191 preschool, middle, and elementary schools including Early Childhood Special Education and Early Childhood Family Education.

This year’s BrainPower and Bowls for BrainPower sponsors include Burnsville High School; BHS Art Department; BHS Youth Services; ISD 191 Employees; ISD 191 Community Education; Burnsville Rotary Organizations; Foundation 191; Second Harvest Heartland; The Food Group; Minnesota Valley Electric Co-op; Everlight Solar; MN Comic Book Association; Target Employee Giving; Prince of Peace; Gideon Pond Parent Teacher Organization; Edward Neill Parent Teacher Association; Walmart Spark for Good.

For more information about Bowls for BrainPower, go to www.isd191.org/brainpower or contact Pam Voigt at (612) 819-4404, or pvoigt@isd191.org.