Everything Under The Sun: Vegan Networking In Salem, Oregon

Saturday, June 11, 2016

Vegan Networking In Salem, Oregon

Laura Carver appeared on Comcast cable station.

There are times when people seek connections with like-minded individuals, but don't find the means to do so in the area where they live. So, why not start your own! That's how CHERRY CITY VEGANS (CCV) in Salem, Oregon, got started.

Originally, the organization was started by Dani Mouser in 2013 as a Facebook page that would serve to connect practicing vegans, those interested, and even those curious about the lifestyle. Just a few months later, Laura Carver and Jennifer Hauge reached out and brought some other vegans with them. That led to a networking event that brought the group together at a vegan potluck. A few ideas were kicked around, including developing a website, a restaurant guide, along with scheduling a variety of social events.

The threesome discussed their ideas, "Our goal is to increase vegan and vegetarian options at local restaurants, promote a healthy plant-based lifestyle in the community, provide social opportunities for people who have shared compassionate values, and more."

The plans are made at scheduled meetups. Cherry City Vegans had a table at the Salem Earth Day event in April. They were able to provide handouts, food samples, and answer questions. They even collected donations.

The group also continues to reach out to restaurants, along with the list of vegan restaurants that they have posted online. Because of their efforts, more local restaurants are adding vegan options to their menus. They supply CCV business cards to those who are developing liaison relationships with local restaurants.

Poster publicizing a local vegan potluck.

In March, there was a dine-out at Venti's, where those interested could join for some informal socializing time. One of the nice features that CCV was able to negotiate was a special vegan appetizer and entrees specifically for them. In return, the group members can support the restaurant by spending their food dollars on their meals.