The Dane County Food Collective (DCFC) is proud to announce its upcoming event series, Wellness Weeks, a fundraiser and discussion series aimed at promoting Health & Wellness efforts in the food industry. The event will take place from April 2nd-13th and will feature various activities to encourage discussions and raise funds to support DCFC’s ongoing efforts.

If you want to make a direct donation today, please head to DCFC’s PayPal here.

In its first year, DCFC has made significant strides in improving Health & Wellness in the food industry. They have created spaces to improve the physical and mental health of industry folks through group fitness classes, meditation classes, and their Sunday Meets program. Additionally, DCFC has partnered with Dane County Public Health to distribute free COVID-19 tests, Naloxone (Narcan) kits, and fentanyl test strips to participating restaurants and organizations. They have also secured funding to train 18 individuals in the industry as certified peer specialists, with the goal of building a network to address mental health and addiction issues in the industry.

The funds raised from the Wellness Weeks event series will help DCFC expand and continue these efforts, with the aim of creating a more sustainable and supportive environment for food industry workers. Activities during Wellness Weeks will include:

Sunday Meets – An open place for people in the industry to focus on the challenges and growth they experience at the confluence of work, life, and wellness. This space is open and free for all food industry employees. Morris Ramen, April 2nd at 4pm.

Wellness Weeks Pasta Party – Cadre will be hosting a three-course pasta dinner with optional wine pairing on Sunday, April 2nd in order to raise funds for Dane County Food Collective and its efforts to promote wellness in the hospitality industry. Buy tickets here. Seatings at 5pm & 7:30pm.

Pat’s Gym Open Workouts – Join us for open workouts, team challenges and giveaways throughout Wellness Weeks. Industry Wellness Classes are spaces for people in the food industry to get stronger, and build social connections in a wellness oriented space. All are welcome! Join us April 4, 6, 11, & 13 at 9am @ Pat’s Gym – Free for all w/ donations accepted at the door.

Wild Foods Dinner with Kombucha Pairing – Join Chef Lauren Montelbano and Lacy Rude of Rude Brew Kombucha as they mesh their  talents to raise funds and awareness for the Dane County Food Collective’s Health and Wellness Programs. Lauren and Lacy are both avid foragers and enjoy fusing the flavors of the season into their menus and products via fresh harvesting and preservation. Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the bounty of Wisconsin and Wellness. Tickets available here. Pasture & Plenty, April 5th at 6pm.

Health Care Forum – Join the Dane County Food Collective for a discussion on Health Care Access. This discussion will be centered around Primary Care as an alternative for Health Care benefits for Food Industry employees. Pasture & Plenty, April 11th at 6pm.

Spring Muddy Boots Hike – Join Pasture & Plenty and DCFC for a 2 mile spring hike out at picnic point. All are welcome! / April 12 @ Picnic Point 4:30pm -Open to Public, $5 Suggested Donation.

Fundraiser at Short Stack – Dollar Donations to DCFC Health & Wellness programs at Short Stack Eatery on April 8th 6am-10pm & April 9th 6am-8pm.

Fundraiser at Heritage Tavern – Dinner proceeds benefit DCFC on April 12th, 4-9pm.