This is a story about teamwork at its best!

Donna Meade, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent for Russell and Tazewell Counties, is the current Chairperson of the Russell County Health Coalition.  In 2017, the Coalition sponsored a fundraising dinner to help support their program efforts.

Donna worked with members of the coalition to coordinate the five-course meal for 150 people with locally sourced meats and produce.  In addition, the Town of Lebanon, Mountain States Health Alliance Russell County Medical Center, Black Diamond Resource Conservation Development, Sue Blevins, the Russell County High School Culinary Arts Program, and the Master Food Volunteers are some of the many organizations and volunteers who provided support for this event.

The dinner was held on Main Street in downtown Lebanon.

The tables are set up right through the downtown area.

An example of a place setting for each participant.

Participants are enjoying their five-course meal.

The beef, lamb, and pork were provided by Gent Farms in Southwest Virginia.

Chef Charlie Howard of The Moose Lodge helped to prepare the five-course meal. Jeannie Hubbard assists here with serving the meals.

The entertainment was provided by Adam Bolt & the Wild Roses and the Southwest Virginia Jazz Ensemble.

The Town of Lebanon was recognized for their contribution to this event.

Donna Meade speaks with Tony Dodi, Town Mayor.

Russell County High Schools’ culinary students helped serve food.

Kudos to everyone involved with this wonderful event!

No doubt, there will be more great things to come with this partnership with Virginia Cooperative Extension, the Russell County Health Coalition, the town of Lebanon, and the many organizations, local producers, and volunteers who made this event such a success.

Pictures provided by Heather Powers.