Local young alumni take on leadership roles in Stark Community

Stark SOUP recently held its first 2017 event at the Canton YWCA, and as event committee chair Kelly Klein ’11 will tell you, it’s about much more than soup (although there is plenty of that).

“Stark SOUP is about giving community-minded people who want to support Stark County the chance to share a meal together and discuss ideas,” said Klein.

In addition to networking, the event revolves around giving microgrants to community members who want to pitch ideas for community betterment projects. Food is provided by local restaurateurs (January’s soup was provided by Deli Ohio and salad by Sol Pie Pizza ). Participants each pay $10 for their donated meal, which funds the microgrant.  In addition, United Way, who sponsors SOUP events across the country, provides $1,000 in matching donations.

“After dinner, presenters pitch their ideas to the audience. Then at the end everyone drops their soup spoon into the can for the project they want to support, and whoever has the most spoons wins,” Klein explained.

This year’s winner was Skylark Bruce ’04, who received the microgrant on behalf of Canton Sunday Picnic, a local organization that serves lunch on Sundays to the local homeless community. The funds will be put toward making upgrades to their kitchen space, and purchasing a larger freezer and canning supplies.

Klein was encouraged by the response to the event and is excited for the future of the event.

“My hope is that Stark SOUP creates a space for collaboration, connection, and encouragement for the many makers, dreamers, and doers we have in Stark County."

Upcoming Stark SOUPS will be held April 23 and October 8. Learn more at http://www.uwstark.org/StarkSOUP.