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Wake Up Sonoma Springs into Action After Election
| We are all in shock, grief, and mourning. I know I am. Literally, the earth beneath our feet has been shaken and we are trying to find our place to hold on. Of course, now our own mandate is to respond to the nationally shared call to action. What can Wake UP Sonoma do? How do we stand for safety and inclusion here in Sonoma when our country is so dramatically divided? Wake UP Sonoma is here to continue on our mission of defending democracy, and to continue to expand our work in the pursuit of the dedication to the advocacy of Human Rights, and to guard against the rollout of Project 2025. However, we need the community to come together to do that. We need to come together as one community and force.Luckily there are other non-profit leaders in Sonoma that are thinking along the same lines, and a collective effort is forming. More details about that effort are to come. YOU ARE INVITED to attend a Community Town Hall meeting to answer the ‘Call to Action’ and hear from some of these other nonprofits. They will be there to provide an outline of this effort. There will be follow up meetings to come very soon. AGENDAPLEASE RSVP BY CLICKING THIS LINK. (not required but will help us plan). https://www.wakeupsonoma.com/townhall11-16 NOTE: This is still very much in process, so there may be changes to the speakers and agenda. Reverend Curran Reichert – will provide an opening and a container for our shock and grief and a place to start building our hope towards the future and the power of community.Speakers from the following organizations may be there, and possibly others to come.Sonoma Valley CollaborativeCatalyst FoundationWake UP SonomaSonoma Valley Education FoundationSupport fromG3 SonomaOut in the VineyardWrap-Up and Q&AClosing Pastor Reichert WE HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE! BRING A FRIEND. |
| WE ARE STRONGER WHEN WE COME TOGETHER |
| END OF YEAR GIVING CAMPAIGN – WE NEED YOUR HELP TO MOVE FORWARD IN DEFENDING DEMOCRACY |
| WHERE WILL YOUR MONEY GO IN 2025? THIS IS WHAT WE HAVE IN PROCESS ALREADY!DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION are one of the first targets of this new administration as well as Title IV protections for the Transgender Community. We will foster and promote visibility in the community in these and other ways.a) Podcast program for LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC youth, seniors and adults to bring their stories forward instead of allowing them to be pushed back into the darkness.b) Transgender visibility activities in Sonoma Valley to elevate their voices.c) Host educational meetings, talks, and forums on Title IV rights and provide educational support for youth and families on their rights and advocacy.d) Promote visibility and inclusion in The Sonoma Business Community.e) We will continue to Advocate for the Civil and Human rights of all, in whatever ways we are called to do with our newly formed Diversity Network. IMMIGRATION is a major target as well. With the threat of “the largest mass deportation program in history, using the National Guard and empowering domestic police forces in the effort, there is planning underway to support that community. Wake UP Sonoma will support the other non-profits who are working hard to protect this community. Our work there is just now being defined. INFORM AND EDUCATE is still a major area of our work. We will work to bring speakers and films to Sonoma Valley that will shed light on the National issues and help us stay educated for what’s to come, and how best to respond. |
Positive Images Offers Support for Election Day and Beyond
As we approach the upcoming elections, we know that many of you may be feeling a mix of anxiety and uncertainty, especially when our rights and identities are under immense scrutiny. We want to take a moment to acknowledge these emotions and remind you that you are not alone.
A medida que se acercan las elecciones, sabemos que muchos de ustedes pueden estar sintiendo una mezcla de ansiedad e incertidumbre, especialmente cuando nuestros derechos e identidades están bajo un inmenso escrutinio. Queremos tomarnos un momento para reconocer estas emociones y recordarles que no están solos.
At PI, we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing support, care, and safe spaces for our community. Regardless of the results of this year’s election, we will be here for you. Through the turbulence, we will continue to offer our programming, resources, and advocacy efforts designed to protect your ability to live a happy and connected life where you can feel a sense of safety and belonging rooted in authenticity and love. Because – contrary to what some political ads may convey – we are here, we are queer, and we deserve the respect and support of our neighbors and communities.
En PI, mantenemos nuestro compromiso de ofrecer apoyo, atención y espacios seguros a nuestra comunidad. Independientemente de los resultados de las elecciones, estaremos aquí para usted. A pesar de las turbulencias, seguiremos ofreciendo nuestra programación, recursos y esfuerzos de defensa diseñados para proteger tu capacidad de vivir una vida feliz y conectada en la que puedas sentir una sensación de seguridad y pertenencia basada en la autenticidad y el amor. Porque -al contrario de lo que puedan transmitir algunos anuncios políticos- estamos aquí, somos queer y merecemos el respeto y el apoyo de nuestros vecinos y comunidades.
Our doors are always open from Noon to 6PM, Tuesdays through Fridays, and we encourage you to take advantage of our programs and support services. Whether you need a safe place to talk, resources to navigate these challenges, or simply a community to lean on, we are here for you. Remember that your feelings matter, and seeking support is a sign of strength.
Nuestras puertas están siempre abiertas de mediodía a 6PM, de martes a viernes, y le invitamos a tomar ventaja de nuestros programas y servicios de apoyo. Si necesita un lugar seguro para hablar, recursos para navegar por estos desafíos, o simplemente una comunidad en le que apoyarse, estamos aquí para usted.Recuerda que tus sentimientos importan y que buscar apoyo es un signo de fortaleza.
Together, we can work towards a future that embraces love, inclusivity, and equity for all.
Juntos podemos trabajar por un futuro de amor, inclusión y equidad para todos.
Join North LGBTQI Families for Ice Skating in Santa Rosa Saturday
Join us this Saturday November 9th for a magical skating adventure at Snoopy’s Home Ice!
The first 35 people to join this event will receive FREE admission, including skate rental. The skating session will be held from 1:15-3:30 pm.
Not a big skater? No problem! Feel free to join us and watch from the Warm Puppy Cafe with a hot chocolate or tasty treat
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Únete a nosotres este sábado 9 de noviembre para una aventura mágica de patinaje en el Home Ice de Snoopy
Las 35 primeras personas que se apunten a este evento recibirán la entrada gratuita, incluido el alquiler de patines. La sesión de patinaje es de 1:15 a 3:30.
¿No eres un gran patinador? No hay problema. Siéntete libre de unirte a nosotres y verlo desde el Puppy Cafe con un chocolate caliente o una sabrosa golosina
Understanding Gender Identity and Supporting Trans Youth: A Panel Discussion Happens November 12
Join us for a panel discussion about gender identity on Tuesday, November 12, at 6:00 pm at the Rincon Valley Regional Library. Panelists include transgender youth and adults who will share their perspectives.
Volunteer with Food For Thought This Holiday Season
| As the holiday season approaches, we at are gearing up for a time of giving and gratitude. November is a month of reflection, and we’re reminded of the importance of community and compassion. With your support, we can ensure that every client has access to nourishing meals during the holidays. Join us as we prepare to share warmth and kindness with our neighbors in need—together, we can make a meaningful difference! Thank you to our team of volunteers for your continued support! Food For Thought could not run the way it does without all of you! |
| It’s not too late to sign up to be a volunteer at Dining Out For Life, our biggest fundraiser of the year! We have over 65 restaurants partnering with us this year and especially need help in Windsor, Healdsburg and Sonoma. Come be part of this fun event and share your love for FFT at the same time! If you are interested in volunteering for Dining Out For Life or would like more information, reach out to Emily at EmilyV@FFTfoodbank.org or (707) 887-1647 ext. 109. |
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| Holiday Food Bank Shifts |
| During the holiday season, we try to provide our clients with a little something special to make the holidays exciting! This year, we will be offering a Holiday Bag, a bag of ingredients to make a side to their holiday meal. With the guidance and support of our food bank team, you will be preparing these bags to get sent out the following weeks. |
| Thanksgiving Holiday Prep Friday, November 1Saturday, November 2Saturday, November 16 Winter Holiday Prep Friday, December 6Saturday, December 7Saturday, December 14 Wednesday, December 18 If you are interested in helping during this holiday season or would like more information, sign up online or reach out to Emily at EmilyV@FFTfoodbank.org or (707) 887-1647 ext. 109. |
 Become a Delivery Driver |
 Do you enjoy driving? Do you want to help our community in need directly? Help deliver healthy food to our home-bound clients! You’ll pick up pre-packed grocery bags of food at our facility in Forestville and drive to 6–10 clients’ homes per delivery route in the same geographic area. We have delivery routes across Sonoma County, so we may have a route near your neighborhood.If you are interested in taking a route or would like more information, sign up online or reach out to Emily at EmilyV@FFTfoodbank.org or (707) 887-1647 ext. 109. |
 Holiday Food Drives |
| What an exciting time for food drives! With the holiday season just around the corner, we are getting ready for our biggest donations of the year. We’re seeking enthusiastic volunteers to join our team in collecting vital donations for our neighbors in need. Your support will help us gather more food than ever, ensuring that everyone in our community has a festive meal to enjoy. This is your chance to dive into the holiday spirit, connect with others, and be a part of something meaningful. Sign up now and help us spread joy and sustenance this season! |
| New Food Drive Volunteer Training Days & Locations Shifts are 10:00 am-12:30pm, 12:30-3:00 pm, or 3:00-5:00 pm Saturday, November 9Oliver’s Market, 461 Stony Point Rd, Santa Rosa Saturday, November 16Oliver’s Market, 9230 Old Redwood Hwy, Windsor Saturday, November 23Safeway, 406 N Main St, Sebastopol Monday, November 25 & Tuesday, November 26Oliver’s Market, 546 E Cotati Ave, Cotati Wednesday, November 27Safeway, 461 Stony Point Rd, Santa Rosa To learn more or sign up for an orientation shift, please contact Amanda Wood, Food Drive & In-Kind Donation Program Manager, at AmandaW@FFTfoodbank.org or (707) 887-1647 ext. 125. |
| Forestville Holiday Faire |
| We are excited to have a booth at the Forestville Holiday Faire this year! Join us as we offer visitors the opportunity to hear about the amazing things we do at FFT. Shifts are two hours long and would be happy to have you there to share your knowledge about FFT. If you are interested in helping or would like more information, reach out to Emily at EmilyV@FFTfoodbank.org or (707) 887-1647 ext. 109. |
 We Appreciate You! |
| As we go into another busy month, we want to take a moment to express our deepest appreciation for all the incredible volunteers who make our work possible. Whether you’ve collected donations at food drive, helped pack groceries in the food bank, nourished our organic garden, assisted at our recent community events, or delivered many meals to our clients that are home bound, your dedication and hard work does not go unnoticed. You are the heart and soul of Food For Thought, and your commitment to serving our community is truly inspiring. Thank you for your time, passion, and support! |
| Thanks to our generous sponsors and in-kind partners: |
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| Food For Thought’s mission is to foster health and healing with food and compassion. |
Altar Maker Workshop Happens at Sebastopol Senior Cent October 25
The practice of using altars is a way for us to call on our loved ones by inviting their spirits to join us for a day of celebration and love, so we can reflect on the wisdom they’ve passed on to us. Join Karla Garcia as we make our own altar, and learn about the history and symbology of Dia De Los Muertos and altars. Space is limited. Advanced registration is required. Most supplies included*
*Most supplies are provided by The Legacy; bring a small box of your choice, photo(s) of your departed loved ones or pets, and any other items you’d like to use to decorate your altar.
When: Friday, Oct 25th | 2:30pm – 4pm
Cost: $25 Members/$35 Non-members
Rainbow Connection LGBT Halloween Street Dance Party Happens Oct. 31 in Sebastopol
Inviting our LGBT Family, Friends & All Allies
Hosted by Scotty King, LGBT Liaison, Rainbow Connection of the Sebastopol FUN Senior Center
Halloween, Thursday, Oct 31st
Cost: Free
Please Register in advance.
Register online here. or Call 707-829-2440
When: 6:30 PM Meet outside the Senior Center.
What: Wear a fun hat or costume! Dance to the best of the Halloween Dance songs!
(Monster Mash, Addams’s Family, Time Warp, Ghostbusters, I Put a Spell on You, Werewolves of London, etc)
Then: 7:30 PM, we walk 4 blocks together to the Halloween Street Party on Florence Ave.
We will mingle, float, and parade through the crowds. We will find and dance to the glorious Hubbubb band. Wear something that lights up if you can. Please note that no drinks or food will be served. The Center will be closed when we meet at 6:30 PM. Bathrooms are available at the library.
“People tell me it’s the highlight of their year,” Patrick Amiot said. Halloween on Florence Avenue is typically a huge west Sonoma County happening. “We expect anywhere from 8,000 to 10,000 people,” Amiot said. For several years, Sebastopol police and firefighters have closed off Florence to vehicular traffic for the safety of the kids and adults who swarm in to collect candy and see what sorts of zany Halloween fun the residents were hosting in their yards. See the fabulous works of art on Florence Street here.
Video: Patrick Amiot, Sebastopol California, Sculptor Florence Ave
Then: 8:30 (or earlier), Walk back and head home.
Sebastopol Senior Rainbow Connection Art Tour Happens October 16
We will be bringing you into the exquisite home of a local LGBT household to view their collection of stunning artworks. Join us for lunch at the senior center, visit Alan Beckstead, the main collector of the art, then we visit a their West County elegant and distinguished home that’s filled with exquisite works of art.
20 FOLKS MAX, WILL SELL OUT, RESERVE NOW
What: LGBT Art Tour
Date: Wednesday, October 16
When: 11:30 AM meet at the Harvest Cafe in the Sebastopol Senior Center
Then: 12:30 carpool to Art Tour at Alan, Danny and Steve’s place
Tour: 1.5 hour
Leave: To return to Senior Center at approximately 2:30
Arrive: Back at senior center at approximately 3 PM
Space is very limited, must register in advance. If you are a member and have a key tag, register online HERE, or call 707-829-2440
Cost: $35 for members, $45 for non-members, price includes lunch at the Harvest Cafe