ENTERTAINMENT

Storytellers Project: Learn how to support food-centric nonprofits

The Des Moines Register

The Des Moines Storytellers Project — the Register’s live storytelling series — returns Thursday with stories that reflect the quilt of Iowans’ experiences with food and drink, including tales on weight loss, waiting tables and the undefinable healing effect food has.

On Thursday, attendees will hear true, first-person stories, be able to order our special "Sous Chef" cocktail and, hopefully, share their own tales with neighbors and strangers alike. We'll also provide guests with information on how to support food-based nonprofits through the Register's Give Local Des Moines program.

GET YOUR TICKETS: Des Moines Storytellers Project: Stories Behind the Kitchen and Bar

The Give Local program offers a new, easy way to celebrate this year’s day of giving on May 3 by connecting donors with local organizations that are working tirelessly to address local needs. Check out givelocaldsm.org for more information.

Kevin Cooney tells his story during the Des Moines Storytellers Project: Love and Heartbreak event on Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2016, at the Des Moines Playhouse.

Here are three of the food-centric organizations signed up for the Give Local Des Moines program:

Food Bank of Iowa

"The Food Bank of Iowa maintains a 53,000-square-foot distribution center in Des Moines containing more than 45,000 square feet of dry storage, 48,000 cubic feet of freezer space and substantial cooler space. Out of this facility, we serve 285 partner agencies — food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters — in 42 counties." Learn more at foodbankiowa.org.

Iowa Restaurant Association Education Foundation

"The Iowa Restaurant Association Education Foundation works to advance professionalism and career opportunities in the hospitality industry through education, scholarships and community involvement. The IRAEF serves as the charitable arm of the Iowa Restaurant Association. Along with the ProStart career and technical education high school program, the IRAEF also focuses on strengthening today’s workforce by providing educational opportunities for professional development and employee retention for those already working in the industry." Learn more at restaurantiowa.com.

Urbandale Food Pantry

"The Urbandale Food Pantry is a collaborative community effort to reach out to our neighbors to provide food assistance with dignity and compassion. Since the pantry opened in 2008, the average number of families served per month has steadily grown." Learn more at Urbandalefoodpantry.org.