HELPING OUT: Our new Community Fundraisers and benefits Calendar

HURRICANE HARVEY BENEFIT – BARBECUE & AUCTION FUNDRAISER

Thursday, Sept. 14, 5-10 p.m.

What’s happening? To support the thousands of people in Houston, Texas who have been affected by the devastating flooding caused by Hurricane Harvey, money is being raised by all SAUCED BBQ & Spirits locations, including in Petaluma. There will be live music from 6-7 p.m., silent and live auctions, free non-alcoholic beverages, and a Texas-sized appetizer buffet. The Houston Texans will be playing the Cincinnati Bengals on all screens, with auctions taking place during half-time.

Who does it help? 100% of the 50/50 raffle, plus the silent and live auctions, and 20% of all food sales for the day (including gift card purchases), will go to the J.J. Watt Foundation, an educational/afterschool sports non-profit based in Wisconsin. The foundation has already donated 30 million dollars in flood relief for Hurricane Harvey victims. Info: jjwfoundation.org

What else should we know? No ticket required, though donations will be accepted. SAUCED is located at 151 Petaluma Blvd. Call for details at (707) 410-4400.

TARA FIRMA FARMS INSTITUTE - PETALUMA HARVEST BARN DANCE

Saturday, Sept. 16, 6 p.m.

What’s happening? Put on your best square-dancing duds and join caller Evie Ladin for a good old-fashioned barn dance, complete with tasty barbecue dinner (with vegetarian options available).

Who does it help? This event is a benefit for the Tara Firma Farms Institute, an organization that provides agricultural and environmental experiences for youth. Learn more at TaraFirmaFarms.com

What else should we know? The harvest dance takes place at Tara Firma Farms, 3796 I St.?6 p.m. (dinner) and 7 p.m. (dancing). Tickets are $20 at the door. For more information visit or call (707) 765-1202.

THE FRIENDS OF THE PETALUMA RIVER – SONGS OF THE KLAMATH

Saturday, Sept. 23, 6:30 p.m.

What’s happening? Continuing her exploration of the connection between the arts and the environment, Petaluma singer-songwriter-farmer Ismay presents the premiere of her long-in-the-works documentary “Songs of the Klamath.” Combining original music, photography and footage of her journey on horseback along the Klamath, the short film will be screened, and Ismay will be singing songs from the film, and discussing the adventure of bringing this project to life. She will be joined by the acoustic duo Quiles and Cloud.

Who does it help? This one benefits Friends of the Petaluma River, a non-profit founded to connect Petalumans to the River and the Petaluma Watershed. FriendsofthePetalumaRiver.org.

What else should we know? The event takes place at the David Yearsley River Heritage Center, corner of Copeland and D St. Tickets are $15. Learn more about the film at SongsoftheKlamath.com.

RANCHO ADOBE FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION - FIRE AND SUDS MUSIC & BEER FESTIVAL

Saturday, Sept. 23, 1-5 p.m.

What’s happening? A fun, tune-filled benefit to raise money for new firefighting equipment, the Fire and Suds Music and Beer Festival takes place at Penngrove Park, 11800 Main St. The popular band The Pulsators will perform, with Twang Ditty. The beer is from Lagunitas Brewing Company, HenHouse Brewing, Coastal Acre Brewing, Bear Republic, and others. Food vendors include the Got Balls Meatball Factory Food Truck, A Guy and His Grill, JavAmore Café, and Full Circle Baking Co.

Who does it help? Proceeds will go toward purchasing new rescue and emergency equipment for the Rancho Adobe Fire District. To learn more visit RanchoFire.org.

What else should we know? Tickets for adults are $40, and include two drink tickets, and two $5 meal tickets. Kids 12-18 are $20, and kids under 12 are free. The first 400 attendees receive a commemorative beer glass. For information, call (707) 981-1085

(Planning a fundraiser, benefit, volunteer event or crowdsourcing campaign for a good cause or charity? For consideration in Helping Out, send the details to David Templeton at david.templeton@arguscourier.com)