This past year, Petersburg, Virginia, became a vibrant hub for plant-based living, community connection, and compassionate outreach, thanks to two landmark events sponsored by In Defense of Animals’ Interfaith Vegan Coalition and the Committee of Consciousness. Together, The Gospel Vegan Experience and the NuVegan Petersburg Grand Opening introduced hundreds of community members to the transformative benefits of vegan food, culture, and lifestyle while tackling food insecurity.

The Gospel Vegan Experience: April 12

This faith-centered celebration united spirituality with compassionate living, creating a space for dialogue, discovery, and ethical reflection. Over 100 participants joined throughout the day, with 40 guests tasting vegan food for the first time and six attendees seriously considering a transition to veganism. More than half of the attendees explored how their faith connects to vegan living, while many learned about In Defense of Animals’ mission for the first time.

The event sparked meaningful conversations about health, ethics, and faith, leaving guests inspired, informed, and empowered to make compassionate choices in their daily lives.

NuVegan Petersburg Grand Opening: July 1

The grand opening of NuVegan Petersburg was a community celebration like no other. With 200+ guests attending throughout the day, the event introduced vegan cuisine and culture to a largely new audience since 90% of attendees had never tried vegan food. Free samples, educational materials, giveaways hosted by Community Clovia of Kiss FM, and local media coverage combined to make the day unforgettable.

Guests experienced plant-based dining in a welcoming atmosphere, learned about ethical and healthy living, and left excited to return and share what they had discovered. This event solidified NuVegan Petersburg as a community staple for culinary exploration, cultural connection, and compassionate advocacy.

Compassion in Action

These events showcase the power of food, culture, and community to inspire compassion in action. They reached over 300 community members, over 130 of whom experienced vegan food for the first time. Local media coverage and a strong social media buzz made a lasting impression and strengthened partnerships between allied organizations.

This summer of outreach and education was possible thanks to your kind donations and to the creative ingenuity of our friends at the Committee of Consciousness. Together, we are planting the seeds for healthier, more compassionate communities, one meal at a time.

Help improve access to healthy plant foods and support our faith-based vegan advocacy with a gift today!