The city of Fort Collins, Colorado, recently hosted a lively charity festival called Bags, Brews, and a Better World. Throughout the day, participants sampled traditional Ukrainian dishes, took part in workshops, and enjoyed live music, all for a good cause: helping Ukrainian children.
This was reported by the Ukrainians of Colorado initiative on Facebook.
Last Saturday, Zwei Brewing transformed into a cultural and charity center hosting the Bags, Brews & a Better World festival, organized by the Ukrainians of Colorado community.
Guests were treated to authentic Ukrainian dishes prepared by Chef Konstantin of the Sunflower Food Truck, as well as freshly baked bread.
The charity bread, made with Dunkel beer from Zwei and baked by Jeanette Van Galder and Aliona Vlasova of Culinary Discovery LLC, was particularly popular at the event. The auction featured unique items, including a silver trident, Petrykivka paintings, and gift boxes made from bullet casings. The program included a cooking class with Chef Tetyana Sherman and a T-shirt painting workshop in the traditional style. The highlight of the evening was a performance by the Ukrainian-American band The NaDiya Band. They performed songs in Ukrainian, English, and Polish, energizing the audience with hope and unity.
Funds were raised through cooking classes, an auction, and the sale of souvenirs, freshly baked bread, and Freedom Bags. These funds will be donated to families raising children with disabilities in Ukraine. All proceeds from Culinary Discovery LLC's bakery were transferred to Ukrainians of Colorado.
The project volunteers — Lesley Garrett, Irina Kor, and James Sherman — deserve recognition as well for making this event possible.
Although Leslie does not have Ukrainian roots, she is a true friend of Ukraine. Since the beginning of the war, she and her husband, Timson Garrett, have actively supported Ukrainians by helping organize fundraisers, engaging communities, and coordinating logistics and craftsmen. During the event, Leslie became its host, bringing people together and inspiring guests with her warmth and care.
Iryna Kor is the community's IT coordinator. She is responsible for the organization's digital presence, creating flyers, communicating with families in Ukraine, and coordinating volunteers. Together with her two daughters, Iryna held a master class on "wearable art," where visitors created T-shirts with Ukrainian patterns.
According to the event organizers, James, who was born in Colorado, became a loyal friend of Ukraine because of his convictions, not because of his origin. In the first months of the war, he started the humanitarian project "Warm Hugs from Colorado to Ukraine," and he continues to help raise funds, organize logistics, and support Ukrainian children. His personal promise not to remove the bracelet he purchased in Kyiv in 2021 until peace returns to Ukraine has become a symbol of the event.
"I am infinitely grateful for the incredible teamwork that made this event possible. Every detail, from the food to the music and handmade crafts, reflected our shared passion and purpose. Many thanks to everyone who participated—your energy, generosity, and sincere hearts made this day special. I am proud of what we created together. It was more than just a charity event; it was a true moment of community unity. Together, we are helping Ukrainian children and preserving a piece of our culture and community," said co-organizer and chef Tetyana Sherman.
Photo: Ukrainians of Colorado
Author: Inna Mikhno