The sixth annual Chowder for Charity fundraiser benefiting Carson City’s FISH returns Friday, November 6, at Tee Jay’s Corner inside Cactus Jack’s.
Owner Chuck McCray has a serious appreciation for chowder. His enthusiasm has even led him to research its history and create a New England clam chowder inspired by the version described in Herman Melville’s classic novel Moby-Dick.
But for McCray, a good bowl of chowder can serve a purpose beyond simply warming people up on a cold Nevada day. Chowder for Charity was created as a way to raise money for FISH (Friends In Service Helping) at a time of year when the organization traditionally sees an increased need for its services.
“What’s going to happen with FISH is, when November begins, they’re going to come into their season where the weather gets cold, and they’re going to start needing all of the items they need to operate,” McCray said. “The need to serve people increases by volumes — that’s why we chose FISH, because they have that need, particularly as things begin to get much harder for people in need.”
McCray has worked alongside FISH for some time through his service with St. Peter’s Episcopal Church and the Episcopal Diocese of Nevada. Both are partners with Carson City’s Night Off The Streets (NOTS) program, which provides warming shelters during the colder months in an effort to reduce deaths related to exposure.
“We’ve been associated with FISH for a while now in various ways,” McCray said. “I’m not afraid to say we’re asking for substantial donations because they are a worthy cause.”
During Chowder for Charity, guests can enjoy a hearty, homemade, Moby-Dick-inspired 12-ounce bowl of New England clam chowder, with donations beginning at $17. McCray hopes patrons will consider the $17 amount a starting point and contribute more if they are able.
“The goal this year is $2,000,” McCray said. “I want to sign a check from Tee Jay’s Corner to FISH for $2,000 or more.”
Last year’s Chowder for Charity raised more than $1,600, and McCray hopes to build on that success by increasing the amount raised each year.
This year’s Chowder for Charity will take place Friday, November 6, during Tee Jay’s Corner’s regular business hours, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Those hoping for a bowl are encouraged not to wait until the end of the day — once the chowder is gone, it’s gone.
Come hungry, enjoy a bowl of homemade New England clam chowder, and help Tee Jay’s Corner support FISH and neighbors in need as Carson City heads into the colder months.”
