SOUP @ The Main

La Crosse SOUP is a collaborative celebration, a public dinner, and a platform for connection. It is a quarterly micro-granting event for people of all ages and backgrounds to bring our community together to support creative projects designed to make La Crosse an even better place. The mission is to promote community-based development through crowdfunding, creativity, collaboration, trust, and fun.

Join us for the next La Crosse SOUP event on Thursday, April 25, at The Main – An Event Space in Downtown La Crosse. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. with food and drinks served, followed by the program and pitches starting promptly at 6:00 p.m. The winner will be announced at 7:00 p.m.

For just a $5 suggested donation, you’ll enjoy soup, bread, and a vote. Four groups will present their ideas in four-minute pitches, aiming to enhance our community in unique ways. There will be an opportunity to ask up to four questions of each presenter. By the end of the night, the audience’s votes determine the recipient of the raised funds to execute their project.

The pitches this round include:

YAB Coulee Region:

YAB brings together a dynamic group of young individuals aged 14 to 24 to discuss and provide insights on available services within The Balance of State. By examining state policies and procedures, they offer feedback to both The Balance of State and United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, aiming to eradicate youth homelessness.

Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA):

BACA is a united force of bikers dedicated to fostering a safer environment for children who have experienced abuse. Their mission is to empower these children, ensuring they feel safe and supported in their surroundings.

The Penguin Project:

The Penguin Project offers children aged 8 to 18 with specific needs and disabilities in the Coulee Region the chance to shine on stage. Paired with a mentor of similar age, neuro-typical, and nondisabled, these young artists work together for four months, culminating in a theatrical performance. Through this collaboration, friendships are forged, diversity is celebrated, and both artists and mentors gain confidence and pride. This year, join us for Cinderella: Youth Edition.

Delicious soups and bread will be provided by our good friends at the Beer By Bike Brigade. Sweet treats at the bake sale will be supplied by the wonderful students, families, and staff from La Crosse Polytechnic School.

Special thanks to our sponsors @properties La Crosse, Altra Federal Credit Union, Rural Mutual Insurance: Kevin Carlson, Style by Kathy and Charisma Salon, and Driftless Recovery Services.

For more details, to submit a pitch, or to become a sponsor, visit www.SoupNation.org. Let’s come together to support innovative projects and strengthen our community!