2026 Featured Local Charities
Reno Food & Drink Week is about more than great meals and memorable experiences — it’s also an opportunity to give back to the community that makes our food and drink scene so special. This year, we are proud to highlight several local nonprofit organizations whose work strengthens Northern Nevada in meaningful ways. From supporting youth and veterans to advancing the arts, fighting hunger, protecting animals, and creating beloved community events, each of these organizations plays an important role in making our region stronger, more compassionate, and more connected.
Food Bank of Northern Nevada
The Food Bank of Northern Nevada serves as the region’s primary hunger-relief organization, providing food assistance to individuals and families across Northern Nevada and the eastern Sierra. Through a network of partner agencies, community programs, school pantries, and mobile food distributions, the Food Bank helps ensure that thousands of people have access to nutritious food each month. Their work plays a vital role in addressing food insecurity and strengthening community health.
Reno Food & Drink Week selected the Food Bank of Northern Nevada because access to food is a fundamental need, and no one in our community should have to face hunger. As an event that celebrates food and drink, it is especially meaningful to support an organization that works every day to ensure families have reliable access to healthy meals.
Noah’s Animal House
Noah’s Animal House provides a safe haven for pets belonging to victims of domestic violence, allowing survivors to seek shelter without leaving their animals behind. Located on the campus of domestic violence shelters in Northern Nevada, the program offers secure housing, veterinary care, and compassionate support for pets while their owners work toward safety and stability. By removing the barrier of pet separation, the organization helps more survivors escape dangerous situations.
Reno Food & Drink Week selected Noah’s Animal House because compassion and community support are at the heart of everything we do. Many people consider their pets to be family, and this organization ensures that families can remain together during incredibly difficult circumstances. Supporting Noah’s Animal House helps protect both people and the animals that provide them comfort and companionship.
Northern Nevada Veterans Alliance
Northern Nevada Veterans Alliance is dedicated to supporting veterans and their families by connecting them with critical services and resources. The organization helps veterans access housing assistance, mental health services, employment support, and other programs designed to improve stability and quality of life after military service. Through advocacy and collaboration with community partners, the Alliance works to ensure veterans receive the care and recognition they deserve.
Reno Food & Drink Week selected Northern Nevada Veterans Alliance in recognition of the sacrifices made by the men and women who have served our country. Supporting this organization helps ensure that local veterans have access to the tools and support systems they need to thrive. It is one small way our community can give back to those who have given so much.
Reno Rodeo Foundation
The Reno Rodeo Foundation works year-round to support children and families throughout Northern Nevada. Its programs provide new clothing and essentials for foster youth, create comforting Reading Rooms for children navigating the court system, award scholarships to students pursuing higher education, and grant experiences and quality of life enhancements for children with medical, mental, or developmental conditions.
Reno Food & Drink Week selected the Reno Rodeo Foundation because of its deep and lasting impact on our community. The organization’s work reaches children and families across Northern Nevada, providing not only material support but also hope, dignity, and meaningful experiences. Supporting the Foundation helps ensure that these important programs continue to serve those who need them most.
The Great Reno Balloon Race
The Great Reno Balloon Race is one of Northern Nevada’s most iconic community events and the world’s largest free hot-air balloon festival. Each year, the event fills the Reno sky with vibrant balloons while welcoming thousands of spectators for a celebration of color, flight, and community spirit. The event is supported by volunteers, sponsors, and community partners who work together to keep this beloved tradition accessible to everyone.
Reno Food & Drink Week selected The Great Reno Balloon Race because it embodies the spirit of community celebration that our region is known for. Like Reno Food & Drink Week, the event brings people together to share memorable experiences and take pride in the place we call home. Supporting this organization helps preserve a cherished Northern Nevada tradition for generations to come.
Urban Roots
Urban Roots is a Northern Nevada nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth through hands-on education centered around food, farming, and the environment. Through school gardens, farm-based learning, and community programs, Urban Roots helps young people understand where their food comes from while building skills in nutrition, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. Their programs cultivate confidence, leadership, and a deeper connection to the land.
Reno Food & Drink Week selected Urban Roots because their mission aligns closely with the values of our local food community. By teaching young people how food is grown, harvested, and prepared, Urban Roots helps strengthen the future of our regional food system. Supporting this organization helps ensure the next generation develops a meaningful relationship with food, agriculture, and healthy living.
Western Lights Festival
Western Lights Festival is a nonprofit arts organization that brings large-scale illuminated art installations to Reno’s public spaces, transforming downtown into an immersive gallery of light, color, and creativity. By partnering with local, national, and international artists, the festival showcases innovative works that blend art, technology, and storytelling. The event invites residents and visitors alike to explore the city in a new way while celebrating artistic expression and the power of public art.
Reno Food & Drink Week selected Western Lights Festival because of its commitment to creativity, community engagement, and the revitalization of downtown Reno. Like great food and drink, art has the power to bring people together, spark conversation, and create memorable experiences. Supporting this organization helps foster a vibrant cultural scene that enhances the quality of life in our community.