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Best Summer Charity Events In Sacramento

Sacramento-area residents know that communities succeed when people work together, and many generously offer their time, talents and donations to help support local charities. And while it is certainly true that virtue is its own reward, kicking up your heels for a good cause is a great way to celebrate summer in California's capital city. Local charities and nonprofits work hard on issues related to health, education, animals, the environment, culture, history, research and more, and there are a number of exciting events taking place to raise support and funds. The following are just a few of the best parties to check out.
Paws to Party Benefiting Front Street Animal Shelter    
California Automobile Museum
2200 Front St.
Sacramento, CA 95818
(916) 808-8166
www.pawstoparty.weebly.com

Date: Aug. 22, 2014 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Every year, Front Street Animal Shelter saves the lives of thousands of dogs, cats and other pets in Sacramento; these folks really love animals. But you won't be served a bowl of water and plate of kibble at this delightful party; the gourmet food, wine and beer are all top of the line and sure to please your palate. Many delectable comestibles will be available, including from Track 7 and Berryessa breweries, House Kitchen & Bar, Mamma Susanna's, Thai Basil, Ink Eats & Drinks, Vallejo's, The Porch, Ambrosia Café and Bogle, Young's, M2, Turley and Vino Noceto wineries. Local favorites Roni and the Flight will provide live music to keep things purring along as you stroll through the Auto Museum, checking out everything from a vintage Model T truck to a racy Lamborghini. Many exciting raffle and silent auction items will be up for grabs, from donors including Honest Dog, Ben Bridge Jeweler and many local restaurants. So fetch a friend or two to support and celebrate the stellar efforts of the Front Street Shelter's staff and volunteers.

Related: Best Date Ideas For Art Lovers In Sacramento

Let Them Eat Cake! Benefiting Sacramento Self Help Housing
Capitol Plaza Grand Ballroom
1215 J St.
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 341-0593
www.sacselfhelp.org

Date: July 14, 2014 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Just say oui to this incredible culinary event, which provides funds for the programs of Sacramento Self Help Housing (SSHH). The party takes place on Bastille Day and offers plenty of ways to celebrate. Sacramento is home to excellent French chefs and bakers, and their talents will be happily savored by those attending the 12th annual event. In addition to the gastronomic goodness of savory cuisine, there will be fine wines, coffees and cakes to ooh and ahh over. Live music, a Parisian café and stunning art from local artists will also set the mood for a fun summer evening. Anyone who enjoys shows like "Cake Boss" or "American Baking Competition" will appreciate the gorgeous confections created by professional bakers in Sacramento, and guests are invited to show off their own talents as well. Bring a homemade cake, from simple to elaborate, to the party to vie for great prizes. Event proceeds benefit the nonprofit Sacramento Self Help Housing, which serves people at or below the poverty line who are homeless or in housing situations that are inadequate and unstable. SSHH helps motivated individuals find information and other tools needed for long-term self-sufficiency.

Art Mix/Hip Hop
Crocker Art Museum
216 O St.
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 808-7000
www.crockerartmuseum.org

Date: July 10, 2014 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

It is all about hip-hop on this musical Art Mix evening at the Crocker Museum. There will be live performances from Elements Brass Band and FLOW Sacramento, and high-energy sets by hot local DJs. Sol Collective will present a showcase of music videos and things will be popping on a global/local hip-hop stage. This is not a passive, sit down and watch kind of event; guests are involved and part of the action. Take a writing workshop, check out how wearable mixtape art is created or go to a do-it-yourself beat laboratory. There will be a Hip Hop Pop Up Shop with cool Sactown merchandise and music for sale, and there will be surprise performances throughout the gallery by Foreign Native. Ten Minute Talks about art, music, the Harlem renaissance, civil rights and the future will be both informative and entertaining, and special drinks are available all evening. While this festival does not directly benefit a charity, the Crocker is a non-profit museum and it's always good to come out and support local artists. Have fun!

Related: Best Museums For Dates In Sacramento

Valerie Heimerich is a freelance writer out of Sacramento. She typically covers animals and community issues. She has volunteered and worked for many organizations helping animals and people.
Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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