11/15/09

By Rachel Azevedo

Bowls of soup took center stage at a fundraiser that attracted more than 700 people to COCC's Campus Center. It was the eighth annual Empty Bowls fundraiser, which benefits Neighbor Impact.

After filling up on gourmet soup and bread, attendees took home a handmade bowl; made by a collection professionals and students from grade school to college.

"We start making them in July to get between 800 and a thousand bowls made for the event," said Bob Sant, one of the organizers.

"I think it's a really cool fundraiser that brings together community and the arts and is helping people in Central Oregon," said attendee Rebecca Larsen.

Last year the event raised nearly $20,000 dollars for Neighbor Impact. This year's ticket sales totaled over $13,000.

Leftover bowls are for sale at The Curiosity Shop and Gallery on Minnesota in downtown Bend.