For six years, your unwavering support has propelled Breastfeed Durham to the forefront of advocacy and aid for families in the tender stages of nurturing new life. The gala, adorned with the spirit of celebration, change, and connection, serves as a heartfelt recognition the strides we’ve taken together. It’s an opportunity to acknowledge the hurdles we’ve overcome and to strengthen our pledge towards fostering a nurturing environment for every child and parent.
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Nurturing Bonds
The Silent Auction for a Brighter Future |
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The Silent Auction, accessible for bidding until 8:00 PM EST on February 24, 2024, features an array of items that reflect the beauty and diversity of our community’s talents and generosity. From the delicate artistry of porcelain earrings by Jessica Sanford of October Forever to immersive experiences like a week-long mountain getaway in Banner Elk, NC, each item is a unique opportunity to support a noble cause while acquiring something special. Notable items include:
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Family Membership at the JCC: Unlock a year of enrichment with a Family Membership at Jewish for Good at the Levin JCC, offering access to fitness, cultural programs, and community events that celebrate and connect all ages.
Artisan Creations: Multiple sets of porcelain earrings by Jessica Sandford, each starting at a bid of $5, offering a touch of elegance and craftsmanship.
Artistic Expressions: Signed 2′ x 3′ canvas artworks by L Jamal Walton, with starting bids of $100, showcasing the vibrant and diverse talents within our community.
Wellness and Relaxation: From a 60-minute massage by Carolina Birth and Wellness to a family care package from Family Care, PA, including a $50 Amazon gift card, the auction offers avenues for self-care and relaxation.
Experiences and Getaways: Whether it’s a 5-night stay at Holden Beach or a magical week in the serene landscapes of Banner Elk, NC, these getaways promise memorable moments for the winning bidders.
Educational and Support Services: Bids can also be placed on invaluable services like a 60-minute virtual pumping class or a 3-hour virtual prenatal breast/chestfeeding class, ensuring support for families in their breastfeeding journey. |
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Where Your Support Goes:
A Lifeline for Families |
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The essence of our silent auction and the gala transcends the mere act of fundraising; it’s about knitting a safety net for the most vulnerable among us. The proceeds from this event are earmarked for a purpose that touches the core of our mission: providing essential support to low-income families with premature babies through the purchase of breast pumps. These tools are not just equipment; they are lifelines that enable parents to nourish their newborns against daunting odds.
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Beyond the Basics
Addressing Unseen Needs |
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We are often the beacon of hope for families caught in the web of bureaucratic delays. Lactation support providers and doulas reach out to us during their most desperate times, typically on late Saturday nights, seeking assistance for families in dire need of a breast pump for various medical reasons. While many of these families qualify for assistance through programs like WIC or Medicaid, the slow pace of paperwork can be detrimental. Without timely help, these parents face the heartbreak of their milk drying up, a natural consequence that can be prevented with the right support at the right time. Moreover, the funds raised will also bolster the support for all our affinity groups, catering to needs that often go unnoticed or are beyond the scope of our established funding. These are the urgent, immediate requirements that arise unexpectedly—the little things that matter immensely. Whether it’s providing additional resources for lactation education or covering expenses for special events that bring our community together, every dollar raised contributes to a fabric of support that wraps around families when they need it the most.
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Celebrate our partnership with Durham Parks and Recreation and the unveiling of L Jámal Walton breathtaking "Breastfeeding Welcome" signs. This gala is a unique opportunity to experience Walton's art firsthand. These signs, funded by Durham County Commissioners, are a testament to our community's commitment to supporting breastfeeding families and enhancing public spaces across Durham, especially in East Durham. Walton's work, rich in narrative and vibrant colors, beautifully encapsulates the diversity and unity of breastfeeding families. By attending the gala, you'll not only witness the unveiling of these 5 custom pieces but also support our mission to make Durham a model for breastfeeding-friendly communities. Join us in celebrating this milestone and exploring the art that brings our cause to life. |
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Join us at our "Community Table," celebrating not just the culinary delights that bring us together but also the inclusive and supportive spirit that defines us. We're thrilled to feature our breastfeeding-friendly community partners, a testament to our commitment to welcoming all members of our community with open arms. Each partner brings something unique to the table, offering their signature dishes that promise to tantalize your taste buds while providing a comfortable and nurturing environment for nursing mothers. Join us as we embark on this delicious journey, where food meets compassion, and discover the local gems that make our community truly special. Don't miss out on this blend of culinary excellence and community support—where every meal is a step towards a more inclusive and connected world. |
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Hummus and Pita from International Delights |
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Explore the flavors of the Middle East with our smooth and creamy hummus, served with soft, warm pita bread. Crafted with the finest ingredients by International Delights, this simple yet flavorful dish is a delightful way to start your gala experience. |
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Gumbo & Rice |
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Dive into the heart of Southern comfort with our seafood gumbo, a rich and savory stew brimming with succulent shrimp, tender crab, and flavorful andouille sausage. Served over a bed of fluffy rice, this dish is a harmonious blend of spices and textures, promising to warm your soul and delight your palate. |
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Fried Chicken |
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Embark on a culinary adventure with our Chicken Huts, a unique and savory delight that promises to be the talk of the gala. These tender, juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, each bite offers a burst of flavors. |
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Vegan and Mushroom Empanadas by Sarah |
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Embark on a culinary adventure with Sara's handcrafted empanadas. Choose from thier vegan delights or succulent mushroom & cheese fillings, each encased in a perfectly crisp pastry. |
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Baked Macaroni and Cheese |
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Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese, prepare to indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Chicken Hut's baked macaroni and cheese. This creamy, cheesy delight is made with a blend of rich cheeses enveloping perfectly cooked macaroni, all baked together until golden and bubbling. With a top layer that's crispy and a heart that's tender and full of cheesy goodness, the baked macaroni and cheese is a soul-satisfying side that perfectly complements any dish. |
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Plantains by Sara Empanadas |
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Embark on a culinary adventure with Sara's Empanadas by sweet and caramelized plantains, this offering is a testament to the richness of plant-based cuisine. |
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Garden Fresh Salad |
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Indulge in the freshness of our garden salad, a crisp and colorful assortment of the season's best vegetables. Dressed in a light, zesty vinaigrette, it's a refreshing start or side to your gala feast. |
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String Beans |
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Homemake string beans smoked turkey. These smoky greens are the perfect complement to any dish, offering a fresh crunch and a burst of garden-fresh flavor. |
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Cornbread |
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A classic Southern delight, our cornbread is baked to a golden perfection. Moist, buttery, and slightly sweet, it's the ideal companion to our hearty gumbo or enjoyed on its own with a drizzle of honey. |
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Cupcakes |
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Celebrate the essence of Breastfeed Durham with our creatively designed boob cupcakes. Not only are they deliciously moist and flavorful, but they also serve as a fun and supportive nod to breastfeeding families. |
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Banana Pudding from Moe's Original BBQ-Durham: |
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Indulge in the ultimate Southern dessert, banana pudding. Lovingly prepared by the experts at Moe's Original BBQ-Durham, this creamy, dreamy dessert is layered with ripe bananas, fluffy vanilla wafers, and a velvety custard, topped with a light meringue. |
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Inspired Macarons |
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Each macaroon, with its unique design resembling the nurturing form of a breast, is a delicious declaration of our commitment to breastfeeding awareness and support. Enjoy a bite of solidarity and sweetness, perfectly baked to celebrate and uplift our community. |
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Dark Chocolate Chip Cookies |
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These delicious cookies are made with care to add a touch of sweetness to our gathering. Provided by our neighbors, Breastfeed Orange NC, they are a symbol of community and collaboration. |
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As we celebrate the Breastfeed Durham gala, we are honored to highlight our esteemed community partners, Wine Authorities and The Glass Jug Beer Lab, whose contributions have been instrumental in curating an exceptional experience for our guests. Their dedication to quality, community, and craftsmanship shines through in every glass, making them pillars of the Durham community and beyond. |
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Beers from The Glass Jug Beer Lab |
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her vegan delights or succulent mushroom fillings, each encased in a perfectly crisp pastry. Complemented by sweet and caramelized plantains, this offering is a testament to the richness of plant-based cuisine. |
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The Beer |
Bunsen (Vienna-Style Amber Lager): A testament to the art of lager brewing, Bunsen offers a light, crisp, and refreshingly drinkable experience. With malt notes of toffee, caramel, and toasted bread, this Vienna-style amber lager combines a rich flavor profile with a smooth, easy-going finish, making it perfect for any season.
Opacity (Hazy IPA): This flagship hazy IPA is a masterpiece of brewing, featuring Citra and Mosaic hops that deliver a big, tropical, juicy aroma. Opacity boasts a super smooth, full-bodied character that's easy to drink, offering the perfect balance between hoppy brightness and creamy indulgence.
Harper’s Real Ginger Beer: A bold venture into hard ginger beer, Harper's is brewed with all-natural ingredients for an authentic taste. It delivers a vibrant ginger kick complemented by various fruits or herbs in its seasonal variants, offering a refreshing and spicy experience that's both invigorating and satisfying.
Pi Series (German Gose-Style Sours): Our Pi series explores the tart and tangy world of German Gose-style sours. Based on a pilsner and wheat foundation with added sea salt and kettle soured for a pleasant tartness, each release is uniquely infused with seasonal fruits, herbs, and spices for a fresh and delightful twist. |
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Wines from Wine Authorities |
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Wine Authorities, located at 2501 University Drive, Durham, NC, is much more than a wine shop; it's a haven for wine enthusiasts and novices alike. With an unwavering commitment to showcasing small, family-run vineyards and sustainable, organic farming practices, Wine Authorities offers an educational and immersive experience. Their expertly curated selection includes unique and hard-to-find wines, emphasizing quality and value. Their knowledgeable staff takes pride in demystifying the wine-buying experience, ensuring that every customer leaves not just with a bottle, but with a story and a deeper appreciation for the art of winemaking. For the Breastfeed Durham gala, Wine Authorities has graciously provided us with selections that promise to enchant and delight, from the crisp and refreshing Muscadet Sèvre et Maine sur Lie to the robust and flavorful Tejo Tinto Reserva and the celebratory Prosecco Brut Spumante. |
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Muscadet Sèvre et Maine sur Lie |
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This exquisite white wine is celebrated for its vibrant acidity and mineral undertones, complemented by a subtle yeasty complexity thanks to the sur lie aging process. Expect a refreshing palate with notes of green apple, lemon, and a hint of sea breeze. |
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Tejo Tinto Reserva (Encosta do Vale Galego) |
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A robust and richly flavored red wine that showcases the depth and complexity of the Tejo region. With a blend of three select grapes, it offers layers of dark fruit, spice, and a silky tannin structure, making it an ideal companion to hearty meals. |
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Prosecco Brut Spumante |
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This sparkling Prosecco is all about celebration, offering a lively effervescence with a crisp and refreshing taste. Notes of green apple, pear, and white peach culminate in a delicate floral finish, perfect for toasting to life's special moments. |
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A Toast to Community and Craftsmanship |
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Both Wine Authorities and The Glass Jug Beer Lab embody the spirit of Durham's rich culinary and brewing landscape, making them invaluable partners for the Breastfeed Durham gala. Their dedication to quality, sustainability, and community enrichment aligns perfectly with the values of Breastfeed Durham, making this collaboration a celebration of local excellence. We are immensely grateful for their support and contributions, which not only enhance our gala experience but also strengthen the bonds within our community. Here's to Wine Authorities and The Glass Jug Beer Lab—cheers to your continued success and the vibrant community you help nurture and sustain. |
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Sparkling Cider: A festive and family-friendly option, this sparkling cider offers the sweet taste of ripe apples in a beautifully effervescent form. It's a delightful way to include all our guests in the toast, without the alcohol.
Coffee and Hot Chocolate: For those who appreciate the finer nuances of coffee,. Each cup promises a rich, aromatic experience, perfect as a warm, welcoming gesture or a satisfying end to the gala meal.
Classic Lemonade: Our homemade lemonade is a timeless refreshment, crafted from freshly squeezed lemons for that perfect balance of tart and sweet. It's the quintessential summer drink, offering a burst of sunshine in every sip, ideal for guests of all ages.
Southern Sweet Tea: Embrace the essence of Southern hospitality with our sweet tea, a beloved regional favorite. Brewed with premium black tea leaves and sweetened to perfection, it's a smooth, comforting drink that pairs beautifully with any dish and occasion.
Iced Hibiscus Herbal Tea: Discover the enchanting allure of our Hibiscus Herbal Tea, a vibrant and refreshing beverage that dazzles with its deep crimson hue and a tart, cranberry-like flavor.
Flavored Seltzer Water: Catering to modern tastes and health-conscious guests, our selection of flavored seltzer waters provides a bubbly, light alternative. With a variety of natural fruit essences to choose from, these sparkling waters are a great way to stay hydrated and enjoy a subtle hint of flavor without any added sugars or calories.
Each of these beverages has been thoughtfully selected to ensure that our guests have a wide range of delicious, hydrating options available throughout the event. Whether you're in the mood for something sweet, tangy, or simply sparkling, our drink menu has something special for everyone to enjoy. |
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Celebrating Community and Collaboration with Durham Exchange |
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Durham Exchange, a beacon of community and innovation in the heart of our city, graciously extends its support by offering its versatile space at an exclusive 20% discount. This remarkable gesture not only underscores their commitment to fostering community engagement but also makes our event possible in a venue that epitomizes both style and functionality. Nestled in a location known for its vibrancy and accessibility, Durham Exchange's space is the perfect backdrop for our gathering, blending modern amenities with unparalleled ambiance. We are immensely grateful to Durham Exchange for this generous collaboration, allowing us to bring our vision to life in a setting that exceeds every expectation. Join us in celebrating this partnership and the endless possibilities it brings to our event, all made possible by the generosity and vision of Durham Exchange. |
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Elegance on Every Table: Ninth Street Flowers' Gift of Beauty |
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In a heartwarming display of community spirit and generosity, Ninth Street Flowers has graciously stepped forward to donate stunning centerpieces for our event. In a beautiful gesture of collaboration, they've provided matching flowers, capturing the essence of unity and shared purpose. To support this incredible contribution and show our appreciation for their kindness, we have proudly contributed by covering half the cost. This partnership not only beautifies our gathering but also strengthens the bonds within our community, showcasing the remarkable impact of working together. We extend our deepest gratitude to Ninth Street Flowers for their generosity and for helping to make our event truly memorable. |
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Clean DJ Ajax |
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Prepare yourselves for an electrifying night ahead as DJ Ajax takes center stage at the upcoming Breastfeed Durham Fundraiser. With his finger firmly on the pulse of the crowd, DJ Ajax is set to deliver an energy-packed performance that will resonate across generations. Tailoring his playlists to appeal to guests aged 20 to 60, he promises a dance floor that's vibrant, inclusive, and impossible to resist. From beloved classics to contemporary hits, expect a musical journey that captivates and delights in equal measure.
As we look forward to this gala event, DJ Ajax's commitment to exceeding musical expectations shines through. His expertise and passion for creating unforgettable moments are what make him the perfect fit for an evening dedicated to supporting and celebrating the Breastfeed Durham community.
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Your Contribution Matters |
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By participating in our silent auction, you’re not just bidding on items; you’re investing in the health and future of our community’s youngest members and providing their families with the resources they need to thrive. This gala and auction represent an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who are navigating the challenges of premature birth and the complexities of lactation with limited resources.Your generosity enables us to act swiftly and effectively, ensuring that no call for help goes unanswered. Together, we can ensure that every family has the support they need from the very start, nurturing a healthier, stronger future for all.
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An evening of Connection and Celebration |
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Your participation in the silent auction and the gala is more than a gesture of support; it’s a reflection of the shared conviction that nurturing starts with the simplest acts of care and love. Nurseling in arms are warmly welcomed, as we gather not just to bid on items, but to celebrate the bonds that breastfeeding initiates. Together, let’s continue to nourish the future, fortifying the foundation of love, health, and community that Breastfeed Durham stands for. Join us in this evening of change, connection, and celebration, and let your presence echo the strength and love that fuels our mission. |
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Thank you to our financial partners! |
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This newsletter was made possible with the financial contributions of the Durham County Board of Commissioners, Durham County Office of the County Manager, Durham County Department of Public Health as part of the Improving Community Outcomes for Maternal and Child Health Grant, and donors like you. |
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Consider becoming a monthly sustainer... |
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Breastfeed Durham has received 3 years ofl funding for Bernadette Greene to continue to serve in the role of Executive Director. The funding is conditional on Breastfeed Durham finding matching funds from other sources. |
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Acceptance of paid advertisements does not constitute Breastfeed Durham endorsement of the product or service advertised. Breastfeed Durham does not require advertisers to carry product liability insurance. To place an ad, please contact Breastfeed Durham by email or by phone 919-622-8787. |
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