Rachel’s Table Moves To Outrun, and Out Dance, Hunger

By JULIE CUNNINGHAM

Photo provided by Rachel’s Table and Joe Bowie

(Western MA) Rachel’s Table has launched a massive program to outrun, and out dance, hunger in Western Massachusetts. Serving Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden Counties, Rachel’s Table is running a 5k virtual race and a “Let’s Get Moving” master class with Joe Bowie, professional dancer and educator currently teaching at Northwestern University.

Along with his numerous dance accolades, like staring in The Hard Nut, an Emmy nominated adaptation of the Nutcracker,  Bowie is also a foodie and professional baker, and has nine years of experience in the restaurant and food industry. Bowie said he has opened restaurants and cafes and has seen food waste first hand.

”I know there is enough for everyone,” said Bowie.

That passion, along with a personal connection to Jodi Falk whom he referred to as a mentor during his Brown days, has brought him to this virtual opportunity to get people moving, spread a little cheer, and help a good cause.

“I understand how important it is to feed people,” said Bowie.

Bowie has spent quite a bit of time in the area, performing at venues like Tanglewood and Jacob’s Pillow. Over the years, he has taught dance and movement to people with special needs, children, and Parkinson’s Disease. That’s why in this case, he is calling it a creative movement workshop and not dance class. People of all abilities and disciplines are welcome. The class will be no more than 45 minutes long, and Bowie is hoping the idea will spark some positivity in a difficult time.

”I am always happy to see wonderful people do wonderful things,” said Bowie.

With food insecurity skyrocketing throughout the nation, and states reopening slowly as the war against COVID-19 rages on, the help could not come at a more necessary time. Rachel’s Table is fighting to keep serving more than 45 partner agencies in the area that deal with food insecurity. All proceeds from the class and from the virtual 5k run will go directly to Rachel’s Table’s programs that work to feed hungry families and aid the unemployed. To sign up for the virtual 5k click here. To sign up for the “Let’s Get Moving” masterclass, click here.

The YMCA of Greenfield is also collecting and matching donations this week from anyone who participates in their online classes. To see what classes are available and to participate, click here.