7 Ways to Give Back in 7 Days

James D. DeCamp via Facebook 

By Mariah West

Drink beer with Nina West to benefit the Kaleidoscope LGBTQ Youth Center

Wednesday, May 16 @ 8:00pm – 10:00pm
Seventh Son Brewing

As a part of Columbus Craft Beer Week, Seventh Son Brewing will be hosting a night of craft beverages & comedy with local drag celeb Nina West on Wednesday in their taproom. Nina will deliver both looks and jokes as she reviews beertinis in collaboration with OYO vodka, with all event proceeds benefiting the Kaleidoscope Youth Center, a nonprofit that supports LGBTQ youth in Central Ohio.
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Volunteer or participate in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure

Saturday, May 19 @ 8:00am
Downtown Columbus

No doubt one of the largest annual charity events in Columbus, the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure will return for its 26th year this Saturday, bringing thousands of participants & volunteers in pink together to support breast cancer research & advocacy. Those interested in getting involved can become an individual race participant, raising pledges & funds on their own, or sign up to volunteer.
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Attend or volunteer at the King Arts Complex Anniversary Gala

Saturday, May 19 @ 7:00pm – 1:00am
Hilton Columbus Downtown

Since 1987, the King Arts Complex has acted as a central organization for the arts and African-American culture in the community. The center will be raising funds to continue their efforts this Saturday at their 31st annual Anniversary Gala, and event which will include a VIP dinner, local celebrities, cash bars, and live music & dancing. To get involved, buy a ticket to attend the event or contact the organization for volunteer opportunities.
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Attend or volunteer at the Art for Franklinton painting auction

Saturday, May 19 @ 7:00pm – 10:00pm
Columbus Idea Foundry

Get a taste of the city’s thriving creative community this weekend as the Franklinton Arts District hosts its annual Art for Franklinton fundraiser. At this event, guests will have the chance to bid in live & silent auctions of art pieces created during last year’s Urban Scrawl live-painting festival. Proceeds will benefit the George Bellows Grant Program, which supports arts & culture in the Franklinton neighborhood. Volunteers are also currently needed to assist with various tasks at the event.
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Attend the North Market Apron Gala

Saturday, May 19 @ 7:00pm – 11:00pm
North Market

The historic North Market will raise funds for their efforts as a foodie institution at their largest event of the year, the 22nd annual Apron Gala this Saturday evening. The experience will feature exclusive gourmet dishes prepared by North Market resident eateries just for the event, live music, drag & comedy from emcee Nina West, wine & beer, a live auction, and the chance to explore the market without the daytime crowds.
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Volunteer at the Girls on the Run 5K

Sunday, May 20 @ 9:30am
Columbus Commons

Girls on the Run is a nonprofit learning program for young girls that encourages & facilitates positive emotional, social, mental, and physical well-being. The organization’s signature event, the Girls on the Run 5K, will sweep the nation this weekend, with the Central Ohio Branch’s event taking place on Saturday at the Columbus Commons. Volunteers are invited to get involved in the race, where they’ll work alongside of hundreds of local girls participating.
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Attend the Hemophilia Foundation’s The Benefit concert

Sunday, May 20 @ 5:30pm
The Davidson Theatre at the Riffe Center

Experience an immersive night of arts & entertainment on Sunday as The Central Ohio Chapter of the National Hemophilia Foundation hosts their 5th annual fundraiser, The Benefit, at the Davidson Theatre. The highlight of the event is a stage show which will feature dancers from several notable companies including BalletMet, local bands, a full 22-person orchestra, and more. The event will also include and after-show reception with food & drink and silent auction, with all proceeds going to the Hemophilia Foundation’s efforts to advocate & raise awareness for individuals with blood disorders.
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