To inform and provide generous amounts of chocolate--that is the purpose of the Women's Health & Wellness Chocolate Festival, Thursday, Nov. 10.
For $5, Auburn women (and men) have the opportunity to attend the festival and browse tables of different state health divisions and organizations while sampling four servings of locally donated chocolates.
"It's great for women or anyone who wants to know more about their body, and chocolate is a good way to learn about it," said Danielle Burton, senior in political science and volunteer in the publicity and board operations of the festival.
The festival is sponsored by the Auburn University Women's Resource Center and the Women in Science and Engineering Institute.
It is also supported by various local pastry shops, restaurants and volunteers.
The event is held in two parts: a fundraising 5K run Nov. 7 and the main festival Nov. 10.
This is the Chocolate Festival's second year, and organizers expect to sell about 200 tickets this year.
There will be 26 expos and 11 tables of chocolate, said Amye Schooley, the diversity initiatives coordinator for the WRC.
Schooley said she believes the chocolate factor draws in people.
"That's how we get people to come," Schooley said, "because everybody loves chocolate. And so while they're there, we educate them about women's health and wellness."
However, she believes there are reasons to attend the event other than the chocolate, including massage therapists, hearing clinics, gyms, health food stores, a silent auction and games geared toward health and wellness issues, with prizes like hour massages, manicures and pedicures.
Each year, the planners of the festival choose an area charity to receive a portion of its funds.
This year, the festival benefits Cindi's Library, which provides free brochures, Internet access and books for cancer patients at East Alabama Medical Center and their families.
"I really enjoy planning these kinds of events," said Jenny Tillman, senior in human development and family studies and coach of the Chocolate Festival. "We always love to see what it entails after working on it for several days and months.
"I really want to do something in this job field. Also, it's a neat way to meet people and build relationships."
To participate or volunteer at upcoming Chocolate Festivals and fundraisers, pick up an application at the festival.
To participate in the 5K fundraiser, register online at www.auburn.edu/wrc, or print the application form and take it to the event with $15 in cash or check. Forms can also be taken to 311 Mary Martin Hall or the event location at the Mell Street entrance to the RBD Library.
"We have everything from dark chocolate to chocolate truffles to cupcakes to cakes," Schooley said. "I mean, it's any kind of chocolate that you could possibly imagine."
The main festival will take place Nov. 10 from noon to 3 p.m. in Student Center Room 2200.
Tickets can either be purchased in the Women's Initiatives Office located in 311 Mary Martin Hall or at the event location while tickets are still available.
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