Stretch & De-stress: Classroom 2

An Evening of Community, Connection, and Impact

FeedNC welcomed roughly 280 guests to Gather at the Table, a heartfelt evening celebrating our mission to nourish lives and uplift our community. Held at Donoghue’s Open Door on May 3rd, the event highlighted the power of coming together around food, purpose, and hope.

Kicking Off a Night of Impact

Guests were invited to big on our raffle and silent auction items, explore a festive kickoff featuring a curated charcuterie board, bourbon tasting, photo booth, full bar, and a spread of cheese, crackers, fruit, and shrimp. The celebration continued with a silent auction and music by DJ Jeremey Shaw, bringing energy and purpose to every moment.

Stories That Stir the Heart

Following dinner, guests were welcomed by Emcee Molly Grantham, who set the tone for a powerful evening rooted in celebration, gratitude, and community impact. She recognized our presenting sponsor, Trane Technologies, along with all of the generous sponsors who made Gather at the Table possible. Molly engaged the audience with five impactful facts about FeedNC’s mission and reach, reminding us of the real change happening every day. Chief Operating Officer Brittany Holbert then took the stage to present a special gift to one of our member families, followed by a moving video that captured the heart of FeedNC’s work and the lives being transformed.

Opening with Gratitude and Heart

The program began with a warm welcome and blessing from FeedNC’s CDO, Bonnie Battalia, followed by CEO Lara Ingram, who shared a powerful and heartfelt letter from a FeedNC member that reminded us all why we gather—to serve, to uplift, and to build community. Lara then offered a blessing before dinner, inviting guests to share in a meal that nourished the body and celebrated our impact together.

Let the Paddle Raise Begin

The energy continued to build as the paddle raise began, offering guests the opportunity to make a direct impact in support of FeedNC’s mission. The evening concluded with our exciting Paddle Drop, where those who placed their paddle in the basket were entered for a chance to win stunning diamond earrings or an overnight stay at the Omni Hotel in Charlotte.

A Sweet Ending to a Night of Generosity

To close out an unforgettable evening, guests gathered once more as the bar reopened, desserts were served, and warm coffee flowed from the bar. Silent auction winners were announced, the photobooth sparked laughter and memories, and the dance floor came alive in celebration. It was the perfect finale to Gather at the Table—a night filled with generosity, joy, and community coming together to nourish hope.