HopeWest thanks the Mountain Valley Bank Summer Festival and all who participated in this year’s pie baking contest. The fundraiser netted $3,400 to support the programs of HopeWest – providing compassionate care and comfort to patients and families in Rio Blanco County during some of life’s most difficult moments.
Eight bakers brought their tastiest pies, one to be judged and one for auction, in a competition to be named one of the best and to support HopeWest’s mission. This year’s blue-ribbon pies: Overall Best Pie – Elk Creek Ranch’s Jon Manucuso Chocolate Silk, Best Seasonal Pie – Christine Halandras’ Chocolate Baklava, Best No-Bake Pie – Tawny Halandras’ Lemon Crème, Best Fruit Pie – Nicky Shriver’s Peach Pie.
A special thank you to our bakers: Christine Halandras, Szoka Mariana, Elizabeth Pena, Elk Creek Ranch -Jon Mancuso (two entries), Nicky Shriver, Tawny Halandras (two entries), Elaine Jordan, and Danielle Knollenberg.
Thank you to our judges Billy Goedert, Mike Jones, and Michelle Bonilla, auctioneer, Buckshot Sheridan, and to all our volunteers MariCarmen Tobin, Solveig Olson, Christine Halandras, Darold Olson, Jamie Armanas, Elaine Williams, Shannon Sheridan, Montey Franklin, Landin Lopez, Finley Deming, and Alex Garcia.
“Contributions from events like this truly make a difference, not only for HopeWest but the lives of the individuals we serve.” said Diana Jones, HopeWest Program Director. “As an organization that heavily relies on philanthropy it’s inspiring to see our community come together to make exceptional care possible for families experiencing aging, illness, and grief.”
HopeWest aims to transform overwhelming or fearful times into moments of comfort, healing, and hope.
Every day, palliative care patients challenged by symptoms associated with serious illness, find relief and a sense of security with frequent visits from their care teams. Last year alone, 65 Meeker children and teens, through the guidance of their HopeWest Kids counselors, unpacked the complicated emotions of their grief, helping them move forward on their journey to healing. Many of our neighbors and friends utilized the HopeWest grief support services to help them through their unique experiences in one-on-one counseling and peer groups.
These examples demonstrate the difference a pie, volunteer, donor, or supporter can make. HopeWest Meeker thanks all our dedicated community partners who support our mission, allowing our team to focus on providing truly exceptional care.
For more information about HopeWest or to find ways to get involved, visit HopeWestCO.org or call 970-878-9383.
