Everyone Cooperating to Help Others (ECHO) features MacFarlane Pheasant

ECHO (Everyone Cooperating to Help Others), in Janesville WI, held a fundraiser on Saturday evening, September 24, 2016, at the Janesville Country Club. MacFarlane Pheasants donated the pheasant for this “Culinary Delight” and Chef Kevin Halpin created pheasant hors d’oeuvres consisting of breaded pheasant pieces, cold pheasant salad bites, and pheasant pizza. The dinner included a honey pan fried pheasant breast with a spicy sauce that was out of this world. Steak, salad, vegetables and cheesecake completed this delicious meal. This culinary delight raised some much needed funds for community members who are struggling with basic needs.

A silent auction was held from 6-7 p.m. while hors d’oeuvres were enjoyed.  Many friends of ECHO donated gifts to be auctioned, that ranged from Bucks tickets to a Harley Davidson cooler. Guests included ECHO supporters from all walks of life. It didn’t surprise me to see many of the ECHO volunteers in attendance. Their big hearts lead them to do the daily work needed to serve Janesville’s low income children and families and to attend events that contribute to the funds that provide the many needed services.

Many people know about ECHO’s work to provide a food pantry for low income people. What is less well known is that the money from this and other fundraisers, and donations from the community pay for much more than food:

• Clothing
• School supplies
• Baby food
• Diapers
• Emergency rent
• Farmer’s Market vouchers
• Emergency housing assistance
• Employment counseling
• Budget counseling
• Holiday baskets
• Adopt a Family program
• Senior assistance

ECHO is a local agency near and dear to the MacFarlanes’ heart. Bill’s mom, Gen MacFarlane, was on the founding board for ECHO. She and Bill’s dad, Don MacFarlane, were active contributors for many years. Bill continues the tradition of supporting ECHO to honor both his parents and the community where he grew up. ECHO has been serving the community for 47 years. MacFarlane Pheasants, Inc. encourages you to check out the ECHO website and make contributions to this outstanding community organization. We hope you will enjoy the Empty Bowls Fundraiser at Parker High School on October 22, 2016 from 11-2. It is an opportunity to pick out a hand thrown bowl, savor delectable soup and bread prepared by local businesses, while helping others make it safely through the winter.